A Taste of History: What is a Cornish Pasty?
Las Vegas, a shimmering mirage in the Nevada desert, conjures up images of opulent casinos, world-class entertainment, and Michelin-starred restaurants. But beyond the glitz and glamour, a culinary surprise awaits those with a discerning palate: the humble yet deeply satisfying Cornish pasty. This savory, portable hand pie, steeped in history and bursting with flavor, offers a comforting escape from the city’s more extravagant offerings. While Las Vegas might not immediately spring to mind when you think of traditional English fare, a growing number of establishments are embracing this culinary treasure, offering a taste of Cornwall right in the heart of the desert. Whether you’re a seasoned pasty aficionado or a curious newcomer eager to explore the depths of global cuisine, this guide will uncover the best places in Las Vegas to find genuine Cornish pasties, a true testament to the city’s diverse and ever-evolving food scene. So, ditch the buffet for a moment and embark on a flavorful journey to discover the pasty Las Vegas has been hiding.
Before diving into the best spots to find a pasty Las Vegas offers, it’s important to understand the rich history and cultural significance behind this seemingly simple dish. The Cornish pasty, often considered the national dish of Cornwall, England, has a fascinating origin story rooted in the region’s tin mining industry. In the centuries gone by, Cornish miners, toiling deep underground in arduous conditions, needed a hearty and portable meal that could withstand the rigors of their work. Enter the pasty.
The traditional Cornish pasty is a hand-held pie filled with a combination of beef, potato, swede (rutabaga), and onion, seasoned with salt and pepper. The ingredients were carefully chosen for their nutritional value and ability to stay warm for hours. But it’s not just the filling that makes the pasty special; it’s the crimped crust that truly sets it apart. The thick, durable crust served as a handle, allowing miners to hold the pasty without contaminating the filling with their dirty hands. Miners, covered in grime from the mines, could hold the crimped edge and discard it, ensuring a sanitary and fulfilling meal. Some even say that miners’ wives would bake their husbands’ initials into one corner of the pasty, so the miners could identify their own.
The crimped edge, a hallmark of the Cornish pasty, is more than just a practical feature; it’s a symbol of Cornish heritage and craftsmanship. The crimping technique, passed down through generations, requires skill and precision. A properly crimped pasty not only seals in the juices but also creates a beautiful and distinctive pattern.
Pasty Paradise: Where to Find Them in Las Vegas
While traditional Las Vegas cuisine might be more steak and seafood, you can absolutely find a delicious Cornish pasty Las Vegas has to offer. Luckily, there are a few hidden gems offering this British staple.
The British Pantry: A Traditional Taste
Nestled away from the bright lights of the Strip, The British Pantry is a haven for those seeking a taste of home. This charming establishment, known for its authentic British goods and comforting atmosphere, offers a delectable Cornish pasty that will transport you straight to Cornwall.
The British Pantry’s pasty adheres to the traditional recipe, featuring tender chunks of beef, diced potatoes, swede, and onion, all encased in a flaky and golden-brown crust. The filling is seasoned perfectly, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. The crimping is impeccable, a testament to the baker’s skill and dedication. At a very reasonable price, this is a must-try.
Beyond the pasty, The British Pantry also offers a wide selection of other British favorites, such as sausage rolls, meat pies, and scones. It’s the perfect place to stock up on all your British essentials or simply enjoy a comforting meal in a welcoming setting. Customer reviews rave about the authenticity of the food and the friendly service. Many expats have mentioned that it reminds them of home.
Cornish Pasty Co.: A Southwestern Twist
Though not *technically* in Las Vegas proper (with locations in Mesa and Tempe, Arizona), the Cornish Pasty Co. deserves a mention for its wide variety of pasties and its proximity to Vegas. While they offer more modern and Americanized fillings, they do offer a traditional pasty with the classic beef, potato, and rutabaga.
With a modern take on the traditional, Cornish Pasty Co. brings the pasty to the current day. However, if you are after a truly authentic Cornish experience, this might not scratch the itch.
McMullan’s Irish Pub: A Hearty Irish Version
While McMullan’s Irish Pub doesn’t advertise a “Cornish Pasty,” they do offer a very similar dish called a Shepherd’s Pie Hand Pie. It consists of ground beef, potatoes, carrots and peas in a delicious gravy, all baked into a hand-held, savory pastry. For those searching for a similar eating experience, this one might fit the bill.
Located just off the strip, McMullan’s has a reputation for high quality food and drink. It’s an authentic Irish experience that might scratch the pasty itch.
A World of Flavor: Pasty Variations in Vegas
While the traditional Cornish pasty remains a beloved classic, some establishments in Las Vegas are embracing creativity and offering unique variations on this savory dish. These modern twists cater to a wider range of palates and dietary preferences, while still honoring the essence of the pasty.
Some variations include chicken pasties, vegetarian pasties filled with seasonal vegetables, and even spicy pasties infused with chili peppers. While purists may scoff at these deviations from the original recipe, they offer a fun and exciting way to experience the pasty in a new light. The pasty is inherently adaptable, so these variations are an interesting development in its continuing evolution.
It’s important to note that while these variations can be delicious, they may not capture the same essence as the traditional Cornish pasty. If you’re a first-time pasty eater, it’s recommended to start with the classic version before exploring the more adventurous options.
Bringing Cornwall Home: Making Your Own Pasty
For those who want to experience the joy of making their own Cornish pasty, here’s a simplified recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
Shortcrust pastry dough (store-bought or homemade)
One pound stewing beef, cut into small cubes
One pound potatoes, peeled and diced
One-half pound swede (rutabaga), peeled and diced
One onion, chopped
Two tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Egg wash (one egg beaten with one tablespoon milk)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to one hundred ninety degrees Celsius.
Roll out the pastry dough into circles about eight inches in diameter.
Layer the ingredients on one half of each pastry circle in the following order: potatoes, swede, onion, and beef. Season with salt and pepper. Dot with butter.
Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and crimp the edges tightly to seal.
Brush the top of each pasty with egg wash.
Bake for forty-five to fifty minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Tips for Success
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t overfill the pasties, as this can make them difficult to seal.
Make sure the crimps are tight to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Let the pasties cool slightly before serving.
If you’re not confident in your baking skills, there are plenty of excellent Cornish pasty recipes available online.
The Final Bite: Discovering Pasty Perfection in Las Vegas
From the authentic flavors of The British Pantry to the modern twists offered by Cornish Pasty Co., Las Vegas has something to offer every pasty lover. While the city may be known for its extravagance and excess, it’s also a place where culinary traditions from around the world can thrive.
So, the next time you find yourself in Las Vegas, take a break from the casinos and shows and embark on a flavorful adventure to discover the city’s hidden pasty scene. Whether you’re seeking a taste of home or simply looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, the Cornish pasty is sure to deliver. A pasty Las Vegas has in store is a taste of history, a symbol of craftsmanship, and a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, you can find a delicious connection to the past. Don’t miss out on this savory delight – it’s a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
