Layers of Legacy: A Delectable Journey Through the History of Pastéis de Nata

When it comes to traditional Portuguese pastries, the Pastéis de Nata deserves a special place in the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide, especially those that love Portugal as much as I do. These mouthwatering custard tarts have a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 18th century. As one of Portugal's most iconic and beloved treats, the Pastéis de Nata has become an essential part of Portuguese culture.

The story of the Pastéis de Nata traces back two centuries ago to the ancient and picturesque city of Lisbon, where they were first created. It was within the walls of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a magnificent monastery, that the nuns of the Order of Saint Jerome were famous for their culinary skills. Seeking to support the monastery's finances, the nuns started baking and selling Pastéis de Nata to the public in the early 1800s. The recipe for these pastry delights was initially a well-guarded secret, known only to the nuns. However, with the closure of many religious establishments during the Liberal Revolution in the 1820s, the monks from the monastery transferred their priceless recipe to the nearby sugar refinery, Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, presently known as Pastéis de Belem.
Since then, the Pastéis de Nata has been lovingly crafted at the famous Pastéis de Belem in the neighborhood of Belém, Lisbon. This iconic pastry shop, established in 1837, has remained faithful to the original recipe throughout the years. To this day, Belém's Pastéis de Nata continue to delight locals and visitors alike, attracting long lines eager to savor their creamy perfection.
The process of making Pastéis de Nata involves several precise steps that have been passed down from generation to generation. The layers of flaky pastry, made with butter and shaped by skilled hands, serve as a delicate vessel for the indulgent custard filling. The velvety custard filling is created by combining egg yolks, cream, sugar, flour, and a hint of vanilla. This mixture is then carefully poured into the pastry cases and baked at high temperatures until the top caramelizes. Sprinkle it with cinnamon and a powdered sugar and get ready to eat more than one!

Sprinkle it with cinnamon and a powdered sugar and get ready to eat more than one!

To this day, Portugal's bakeries continue to delight their customers with their irresistible Pasteis de Nata, leaving the lingering question: which one reigns supreme in taste? For me, Mateigaria takes the crown as the ultimate favorite.