Paste (pasty)

Paste (pasty)

A traditional Mexican paste

A paste is a type of pasty that originated in Cornwall, England, and was brought to Mexico by Cornish miners in the 19th century. The paste has since become a popular dish in the Hidalgo region of Mexico, particularly in the town of Real del Monte.

History

The introduction of the paste to Mexico is closely linked to the arrival of Cornish miners in the mid-1800s. These miners came to work in the silver mines of Real del Monte and Pachuca. They brought with them their culinary traditions, including the Cornish pasty, which was adapted to local tastes and ingredients, resulting in the Mexican paste.

Ingredients and Preparation

The traditional paste is made with a pastry crust filled with a variety of ingredients. Common fillings include:

• Potatoes
• Ground beef or chicken
• Onions
• Chilies

The pastry is typically made from a simple dough of flour, water, and lard or butter. The filling is placed in the center of a rolled-out piece of dough, which is then folded over and crimped along the edges to seal it. The paste is baked until the crust is golden brown.

Cultural Significance

Close-up of a paste showing its filling

Pastes have become an integral part of the local culture in Hidalgo. They are celebrated annually at the International Paste Festival in Real del Monte, where visitors can sample a wide variety of pastes with both traditional and innovative fillings.

The paste is not only a culinary delight but also a symbol of the cultural exchange between Cornwall and Mexico. It represents the blending of Cornish and Mexican traditions, showcasing how food can transcend borders and bring people together.

Related pages

• Cornish pasty
• Real del Monte
• Hidalgo
• Mexican cuisine