What is a pasty, and what is its primary association?

A pasty is a British baked turnover pastry, typically filled with meat and vegetables, encased in a folded and crimped shortcrust pastry circle. It is particularly associated with Cornwall, often referred to as the national dish of the region.

What is the significance of the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for the Cornish pasty?

Since 2011, the traditional Cornish pasty has held Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in Europe. This designation means that to be legally called a 'Cornish pasty', it must adhere to specific ingredients, shape, and preparation methods, primarily being made in Cornwall.

What are the traditional ingredients required for a Cornish pasty under its PGI status?

According to its PGI status, a traditional Cornish pasty must be filled with diced or minced beef (typically skirt steak), sliced or diced potato, swede (known as 'turnip' in Cornwall), and onion. These ingredients are seasoned with salt and pepper, and the filling should retain a chunky texture.

How does the pastry of a Cornish pasty need to be prepared?

The pastry for a Cornish pasty must be golden in color and robust enough not to crack during cooking or cooling. While the PGI status doesn't specify the exact type of pastry, modern Cornish pasties almost universally use shortcrust pastry. Historically, barley flour was often used, resulting in a denser pastry.

What is the etymological origin of the word 'pasty'?

The English word 'pasty' originates from Medieval French (Old French 'paste') and Vulgar Latin ('pasta'), referring to a pie filled with ingredients like venison, salmon, meat, vegetables, or cheese, baked without a dish.

Can you provide examples of early historical references to pasties?

Historical references to pasties date back centuries. King John granted a charter in 1208 requiring Great Yarmouth to send him 'one hundred herrings, baked in twenty four pasties'. The 13th-century chronicler Matthew Paris noted that monks at St Albans Abbey 'lived upon pasties of flesh-meat'. Royalty also consumed them, as evidenced by a letter to Henry VIII's wife, Jane Seymour, and Samuel Pepys mentioned eating them in his diaries.

How did the pasty transition from a food for the wealthy to a staple for working people?

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the pasty became increasingly popular among working people, particularly in Cornwall and West Devon. Its convenient, self-contained nature made it ideal for tin miners and others who needed a portable, complete meal that could be eaten without cutlery.

What made the pasty particularly suitable for miners?

The pasty's dense pastry kept it warm for hours in the mines, and it could be easily reheated on a shovel over a candle. The thick crust may have served a practical purpose, potentially being discarded to avoid contamination from dirty hands, which might have traces of arsenic from the ore.

What are some theories regarding the disposal of the pasty's crust?

One theory suggests that miners held the pasty by its thick, crimped edge, which was then discarded to avoid contaminating the edible part with potentially arsenic-laden fingers. However, historical evidence also shows pasties were wrapped in paper or muslin and eaten from end to end, which is considered the 'true Cornish way' by some older recipe books.

In what literary works have pasties been mentioned?

Pasties have appeared in literature since at least the 12th-century Arthurian romance 'Erec and Enide'. They are also mentioned in 'Havelok the Dane' (late 13th century), Robin Hood tales (14th century), and plays by William Shakespeare, such as 'The Merry Wives of Windsor' and 'All's Well That Ends Well'.

What is the cultural significance of the pasty in Cornwall?

The pasty is considered the national dish of Cornwall and is strongly associated with its identity. It significantly contributes to the Cornish food economy, accounting for about 6% of it, and is cited as one of the top reasons people visit Cornwall.

How did the Cornish pasty spread globally?

The global spread of the pasty is largely attributed to the Cornish diaspora, particularly Cornish miners and sailors who migrated to mining regions worldwide during the 19th century. This led to variations of the pasty being found in places like Australia, North America, and Mexico.

What are some notable regional variations or adaptations of the pasty found outside Cornwall?

Variations include the Lancashire pasty, which uses carrot instead of swede; pasties found in California's Gold Rush towns like Grass Valley; the pasty as a cultural symbol in Michigan's Upper Peninsula; and the Mexican 'paste' in Hidalgo, influenced by Cornish miners. The Jamaican patty is also considered a modification of the pasty.

Are there any specific rules regarding the shape and crimping of a Cornish pasty?

Yes, the PGI status specifies that a Cornish pasty must be D-shaped and crimped along the curved edge (side-crimped). While this is the official standard, variations in crimping (side vs. top) have historically existed within Cornwall and Devon, though pasties made with top crimping can no longer legally be called 'Cornish'.

What is the minimum meat content requirement for pasties sold in the UK?

According to the Meat Pie and Sausage Roll Regulation 1967 in the UK, pasties must contain meat that constitutes a minimum of 12.75% of the pastry's weight.

What historical evidence exists for pasties containing ingredients other than the traditional beef and vegetables?

Historically, pasties were made with a variety of available ingredients. Early recipes included venison and salmon, and later variations featured fillings like stilton cheese, vegetarian options, chicken tikka, pork and apple, and even sweet fillings such as apple and fig or chocolate and banana.

What is a 'tiddy oggy'?

A 'tiddy oggy' is a traditional Cornish pasty variation where steak is replaced with an extra potato. The name comes from 'tiddy' meaning potato and 'oggy' meaning pasty, and it was typically eaten during times when expensive meat was unaffordable.

What are some superstitions associated with pasties in Cornish mining culture?

In Cornish tin mines, miners would sometimes leave a portion of their pasty for 'knockers', mythical spirits believed to indicate rich ore veins or warn of danger. Sailors and fishermen also had superstitions, sometimes discarding a crust to appease sea spirits, though some considered it bad luck to bring a pasty aboard a ship.

What is the origin of the chant 'Oggy Oggy Oggy, Oi Oi Oi'?

The chant 'Oggy Oggy Oggy, Oi Oi Oi' is thought to originate from the Cornish dialect word 'hoggan', meaning pasty. It's believed that 'bal maidens' (women who worked in the mines) would shout 'Oggy Oggy Oggy' down the shafts when the pasties were ready, and the miners would reply 'Oi Oi Oi'.

How have pasties been represented in literature beyond simple mentions?

Pasties have been featured in various literary contexts, including Arthurian romances, Robin Hood tales, and Shakespearean plays. For instance, Shakespeare's 'The Merry Wives of Windsor' mentions a 'hot venison pasty', and 'All's Well That Ends Well' uses the phrase 'pinch me like a pasty' metaphorically.

What is the 'Cornish Pasty's' shape requirement under PGI status?

Under the PGI status, a Cornish pasty must be shaped like a 'D' and crimped along one side, not across the top.

What was the reaction of some producers outside Cornwall to the PGI award for the Cornish pasty?

Some producers outside Cornwall reacted negatively to the PGI award, with one producer stating EU bureaucrats could 'go to hell'. Others felt it was protectionism for large companies creating a 'pastiche' of the original product. Major supermarkets and bakery chains like Asda, Morrisons, and Greggs were affected, though some were granted transitional periods to adapt.

How significant is the pasty industry in Cornwall?

In 2008, members of the Cornish Pasty Association (CPA) produced approximately 87 million pasties, generating sales of £60 million, which represented about 6% of Cornwall's food economy. The industry also supported around 13,000 jobs indirectly.

What is the 'Merry Ballad of the Cornish Pasty' about?

The 'Merry Ballad of the Cornish Pasty', attributed to Robert Morton Nance in 1898, celebrates the pasty as a symbol of Cornish identity and pride, specifically highlighting the person who 'first found out the Cornish Pastie'.

What is the difference between a Cornish pasty and a pastie?

While 'pasty' is a general term for this type of baked turnover, the 'Cornish pasty' refers to a specific variety with defined ingredients and preparation methods, notably holding PGI status. The article notes that the term 'pasty' outside Devon and Cornwall declined in use after the 17th century, while the 'Cornish pasty' became more distinct.

What is the role of the Cornish Pasty Association (CPA)?

The Cornish Pasty Association (CPA) is a trade organization comprising about 50 pasty makers based in Cornwall. It led the nine-year campaign for the 'Cornish pasty' to receive Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status and polices the use of the authentication stamp for compliant products.

What is the 'two-course pasty' mentioned in the article?

A 'two-course pasty' is a variation that historically contained both savoury and sweet fillings, possibly separated within the pastry case. While not commercially produced in Cornwall today under that name, similar items have been found, and they are sometimes linked to Cornish miners who may have brought the tradition with them.

What is the 'tiddy oggy' and why was it eaten?

A 'tiddy oggy' is a pasty variation that replaces the traditional beef with an extra potato. It was eaten during times of hardship when more expensive ingredients like meat were unaffordable.

What is the significance of the name 'oggy' in relation to pasties?

The term 'oggy' is believed to derive from the Cornish word 'hoggan', meaning pasty. It is famously used in the chant 'Oggy Oggy Oggy, Oi Oi Oi', which is thought to have originated from miners calling out when pasties were ready.

How did pasties influence other regional foods, such as the Jamaican patty?

The pasty's influence can be seen in other cuisines. For example, modifications with different spices and fillings in Jamaica led to the development of the Jamaican patty, demonstrating how the pasty's concept traveled and adapted.

What is the 'International Pasty Festival' and where is it held?

The International Pasty Festival is held annually in Real del Monte, Mexico, celebrating the pasty which became a local delicacy due to the influence of Cornish miners who settled there centuries ago.

What is the 'World Pasty Championships'?

The World Pasty Championships are an annual event held in Cornwall that celebrates and competes on the making of pasties, highlighting the ongoing cultural importance and culinary skill associated with this food.

What is the traditional filling for a pasty in Lancashire?

A traditional Lancashire pasty is similar to its Cornish counterpart but notably uses carrot instead of swede in its filling.

What is the significance of Grass Valley, California, in relation to pasties?

Grass Valley, California, like other historical Gold Rush towns, has a significant pasty tradition due to the influx of Cornish miners. These miners brought their culinary heritage, making pasties a notable part of the local cuisine and culture.

How is the pasty culturally significant in Michigan's Upper Peninsula?

The pasty has become a cultural symbol for the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, largely due to Finnish immigrants who adopted the dish, mistaking it for their traditional pastries. Pasty shops are a major tourist attraction in the region, and Calumet hosts an annual Pasty Festival.

What is the historical connection between Cornish miners and the pasty in Butte, Montana?

Cornish miners who migrated to Butte, Montana, brought the pasty tradition with them. They referred to the pasty as a 'letter from 'ome' (home), highlighting its role as a comforting reminder of their homeland.

What is a 'paste' in the context of Mexican cuisine?

In Mexico, particularly in the state of Hidalgo and the mining cities of Pachuca and Mineral del Monte, the pasty is known as a 'paste'. This name reflects the Cornish influence from miners who settled there, making the pasty a typical local dish.

What is the 'Cornish Pasty's' D-shape and side-crimping requirement?

The Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for the Cornish pasty mandates a D-shape, with the pastry crimped along the curved edge, rather than across the top. This specific shape and crimping method are key identifiers of the authentic Cornish pasty.

What is the origin of the term 'pasty' in relation to pies?

The term 'pasty' derives from the Medieval French word 'paste', which referred to a pie filled with various ingredients like venison or salmon, baked without a dish. This highlights the historical use of the term for this style of baked turnover.

What role did cookery writers play in the history of the pasty?

Cookery writers from the 16th century onwards documented recipes for pasties, including early versions with venison and other meats. Later writers in the 19th century adapted the pasty for middle-class Victorians, often making it smaller and positioning it as an 'economical savoury nibble'.

What is the 'Cornish Pasty's' requirement regarding where it must be prepared?

For a pasty to be legally designated a 'Cornish pasty' under its PGI status, it must be prepared within Cornwall. However, the actual baking process does not necessarily need to occur within the county.

What is the historical context of pasties being eaten by royalty?

Pasties were consumed by royalty in England, as indicated by a letter to Jane Seymour, the third wife of Henry VIII, which mentions a pasty. This suggests that pasties, likely made with more refined ingredients, were part of the diet of the English court.

What is the 'Cornish Pasty's' minimum meat content requirement?

The 'Meat Pie and Sausage Roll Regulation 1967' stipulates that pasties sold in the UK must contain a minimum of 12.75% meat by weight relative to the pastry.

What is the 'Cornish Pasty's' pastry requirement regarding cracking?

The PGI status for the Cornish pasty requires that the pastry must be golden in color and must not crack during the cooking or cooling process, ensuring the filling remains enclosed.

What is the 'Cornish Pasty's' requirement regarding the texture of the filling?

The PGI status specifies that the filling of a Cornish pasty should maintain a chunky texture, rather than being finely minced or mashed.

What is the origin of the name 'oggy' in relation to pasties?

The term 'oggy' is believed to derive from the Cornish word 'hoggan', which means pasty. This term is famously associated with the chant 'Oggy Oggy Oggy, Oi Oi Oi'.

What is the significance of the 'Cornish Pasty's' PGI status in relation to its ingredients?

The PGI status strictly defines the ingredients for a 'Cornish pasty' to include beef, potato, swede (or 'turnip' as known locally), and onion, seasoned with salt and pepper. This protects the traditional recipe and distinguishes it from other pasty variations.

What is the historical context of the pasty being associated with miners?

The pasty became strongly associated with miners in Cornwall and West Devon during the 17th and 18th centuries because it was a convenient, self-contained meal that could be easily transported and eaten without utensils. Its thick crust was also thought to protect against contamination from arsenic in the mines.

What is the meaning of 'tiddy oggy'?

'Tiddy oggy' is a term for a pasty variation that uses extra potato instead of meat, reflecting times when meat was scarce or unaffordable. 'Tiddy' means potato and 'oggy' means pasty in Cornish dialect.

Pasty Wiki: The Pasty Chronicle: A Taste of Cornish Heritage

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A Storied Past

Ancient Origins

The term "pasty" originates from Medieval French, referring to a pie baked without a dish, traditionally filled with ingredients like venison, salmon, or beef. Early references trace back to 13th-century England, including mentions in royal charters and chronicles, indicating its presence across various social strata.

Historical records show pasties were part of feasts and obligations as early as 1208. By the 15th century, they were served in large quantities at significant events. Samuel Pepys's diaries in the mid-17th century also document his consumption of pasties, though their popularity seemed to wane outside specific regions after this period.

The Miner's Meal

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the pasty gained prominence among working classes, particularly in Cornwall and West Devon. Its robust pastry casing and self-contained nature made it an ideal portable meal for tin miners. The thick pastry edge could serve as a handle, potentially discarded to avoid contamination from arsenic in the mines.

The pasty's ability to stay warm for hours, and even be reheated over a candle on a shovel, cemented its status as a practical food for miners. Theories suggest the pastry was sometimes marked with initials for identification if not finished in one sitting.

Global Spread

The tradition of the pasty traveled worldwide with Cornish miners and sailors. Variations of the pasty can now be found across Australia, Mexico, the United States, and other regions, reflecting the global reach of the Cornish diaspora.

The Cornish Icon

National Dish Status

The pasty is widely regarded as the national dish of Cornwall. Its cultural significance is immense, deeply intertwined with the region's identity and economy, accounting for a notable percentage of the local food market.

Protected Status

Since 2011, the "Cornish Pasty" has held Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status within the European Union. This designation ensures that authentic Cornish pasties must adhere to specific ingredients and preparation methods, and crucially, must be prepared in Cornwall.

The PGI specifies a D-shape, side-crimped pastry, filled with beef, potato, swede (referred to as 'turnip' in Cornwall), and onion, seasoned with salt and pepper. The pastry must be golden and robust. While baking doesn't strictly need to occur in Cornwall, preparation must.

Naming Conventions

The distinction between Cornish and Devonian pasties often lies in the crimping method (side vs. top) and shape. However, historical practices vary, and the PGI status has led to debates about authenticity and regional naming rights.

Defining the Pasty

Traditional Ingredients

The quintessential Cornish pasty filling comprises roughly chopped beef (typically skirt steak), potato, swede, and onion. Seasoning is usually limited to salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to meld during baking.

Swede, often called 'turnip' in Cornwall, is a key component, distinct from the common turnip. The beef is usually skirt steak, known for its flavor and texture when slow-cooked. The vegetables are typically diced or minced into rough chunks.

The Pastry

The pastry itself is not strictly defined by the PGI, as long as it is golden, durable, and does not crack during baking. Traditionally, shortcrust pastry is used, often made with barley flour, contributing to its characteristic density and strength.

Regulatory Standards

In the UK, regulations mandate that pasties must contain a minimum of 12.75% meat relative to the pastry's weight, ensuring a substantial filling.

Beyond Tradition

Regional Twists

While the Cornish Pasty has a defined recipe, variations exist. For instance, a Lancashire pasty often includes carrot instead of swede. Historically, pasties were made with whatever ingredients were readily available.

Sweet and Savory

Beyond the classic savory filling, pasties have been adapted with sweet ingredients like apple, fig, or even chocolate and banana in some Cornish areas. Two-course pasties, featuring both savory and sweet fillings, were historically noted among miners.

Pork and apple pasties are common, and some recipes incorporate clotted cream for a richer flavor. These variations highlight the pasty's adaptability as a culinary form.

Global Adaptations

The pasty's journey has led to diverse interpretations worldwide. In Mexico, particularly in Hidalgo, they are known as 'pastes' and reflect Cornish influence. In Jamaica, the pasty evolved into the popular Jamaican patty.

Cultural Significance

Folklore and Song

The pasty is woven into Cornish folklore and culture. It features in traditional rhymes and songs, such as Cyril Tawney's "The Oggie Man," celebrating the pasty sellers who served dockyard workers. The chant "Oggy Oggy Oggy, Oi Oi Oi" is believed to derive from the Cornish word for pasty.

Miners would leave portions of pasties for "knockers," mythical spirits in the mines, as a sign of goodwill. Sailors also had traditions related to pasties, though some considered them bad luck aboard ships. The pasty's versatility was humorously noted in a proverb suggesting the devil himself feared being baked into one.

Literary Mentions

Pasties have appeared in literature for centuries, from Arthurian romances like "Erec and Enide" to works by William Shakespeare. These mentions highlight the pasty's long-standing presence in English culture.

Competitions and Celebrations

Cornwall hosts events like the World Pasty Championships, celebrating the craft of pasty making. Giant pasties are often created for local festivals and sporting events, underscoring its role as a beloved regional symbol.

Pasty Around the World

Australia

Cornish mining heritage led to the pasty's adoption in Australian mining regions like the Yorke Peninsula, which hosts an annual Cornish festival celebrating this culinary link.

United States

Historical mining towns in California (Grass Valley, Nevada City) and regions like Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Minnesota's Iron Range have strong pasty traditions due to Cornish immigration. Wisconsin also maintains a significant pasty culture.

Mexico

In Pachuca and Mineral del Monte, Hidalgo, Cornish miners introduced the pasty, known locally as 'paste'. These cities embrace their Cornish heritage, even hosting an International Pasty Festival.

South Africa & Beyond

The pasty's influence extends to South Africa, New Zealand, and Ulster. Its adaptable form has also inspired variations like the Jamaican patty.

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References

The West Briton, Commercial pasty companies are failing our Cornish national dish, 23 September 2010

A full list of references for this article are available at the Pasty Wikipedia page

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A Note on Authenticity

Important Considerations

This content is generated by AI based on publicly available information, aiming for accuracy but not guaranteeing it. While the Cornish Pasty has PGI status, variations abound globally and historically. Always consult official sources and culinary experts for definitive information.

This is not culinary advice. Information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Always refer to official recipes and guidelines for authentic preparation. Enjoy exploring the world of pasties responsibly!

The Pasty Chronicle

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied Past📜

🌍 Ancient Origins

⛏️ The Miner's Meal

🌐 Global Spread

The Cornish Icon🇬🇧

⭐ National Dish Status

🛡️ Protected Status

🗣️ Naming Conventions

Defining the Pasty📝

🥩 Traditional Ingredients

🍞 The Pastry

⚖️ Regulatory Standards

Beyond Tradition🔄

🥕 Regional Twists

🍰 Sweet and Savory

🌶️ Global Adaptations

Cultural Significance🎭

🎶 Folklore and Song

📚 Literary Mentions

🏆 Competitions and Celebrations

Pasty Around the World🗺️

🇦🇺 Australia

🇺🇸 United States

🇲🇽 Mexico

🇿🇦 South Africa & Beyond

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A Note on Authenticity⚠️

💡 Important Considerations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied Past

Ancient Origins

The Miner's Meal

Global Spread

The Cornish Icon

National Dish Status

Protected Status

Naming Conventions

Defining the Pasty

Traditional Ingredients

The Pastry

Regulatory Standards

Beyond Tradition

Regional Twists

Sweet and Savory

Global Adaptations

Cultural Significance

Folklore and Song

Literary Mentions

Competitions and Celebrations

Pasty Around the World

Australia

United States

Mexico

South Africa & Beyond

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

A Note on Authenticity

Important Considerations