When one thinks of Portugal, the first thing that comes to mind for many is its delicious traditional food. One of the most popular Portuguese delicacies is the Pastel de Nata, a delightful custard tart wrapped in crispy pastry. This traditional Portuguese sweet is a must-try when visiting Portugal, whether paired with a coffee or, during winter, with a creamy hot chocolate for an even more indulgent experience.
What is Pastel de Nata?
O Pastel de Nata is a very popular sweet in Portugal and is served in many restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. Its pastry is typically small, with a golden brown and crispy exterior. The creamy filling is made with egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon, sometimes including lemon zest as well. The combination of the cream and puff pastry makes it a genuinely unique and delicious delicacy.
The origin of Pastel de Nata is believed to date Pastel de Nata back to the 18th century the Jerónimos Monastery.. It's said that the monks of the monastery used egg whites to starch their clothes, and to avoid wasting egg yolks, they created this delicious custard tart. The recipe was then passed down through generations and adapted in different regions of Portugal, leading to the many regional variations of this sweet we see today.
The History of Pastel de Nata
The history of Pastel de Nata is closely intertwined with Portuguese history and culture. It's believed that the recipe originated in the 18th century, in the Jerónimos Monastery.The monks of the monastery used egg whites to starch their clothes, and to avoid wasting egg yolks, they created this delightful custard tart. The recipe was passed down through generations to the present day.
This sweet became very popular in the 19th century when the famous pastry shop "Pastéis de Belém" opened in Lisbon, which is now one of the most well-known in Portugal and credited with popularizing Pastel de Nata throughout the country. Although the recipe is a well-guarded secret, the shop still serves the original version of the sweet.
O Pastel de Nata has become an iconic symbol of Portugal and is now a favorite of both locals and tourists alike.
Where to Find Pastel de Nata in Portugal
O Pastel de Nata can be found in many bakeries, cafes, and pastry shops across Portugal. The most famous and popular place to find this Portuguese pastry delight is pastelaria portuguesa at "Pastéis de Belém" in Lisbon, which is the most sought-after establishment by tourists eager to try the local sweets. Therefore, it's a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lisbon.
However, Pastel de Nata can be found in many other establishments throughout Portugal. In the North of Portugal, this sweet is served with a sprinkle of cinnamon, while in the South, it's often served with a sprinkle of sugar. In the Azores Islands, Pastel de Nata is served with a crunchy almond topping. No matter where you are in Portugal, you can find a delicious version of this delicacy.
Conclusion
O Pastel de Nata forma parte de la is a part of traditional Portuguese pastry and is made with a creamy filling, typically flavored with cinnamon and lemon and placed inside a shell-shaped puff pastry. It's a very popular sweet in Portugal, where it's served in many restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. It's usually topped with a dusting of sugar or cinnamon and is often served warm. Whether you're in Lisbon or another part of the country, you can always savor this traditional Portuguese sweetEnjoy!
