Pastel de Nata is a small, round pastry that's about the size of a cupcake. It has a crispy, flaky crust that's made from layers of puff pastry, which are rolled out thinly, then rolled up tightly like a jelly roll, sliced into disks, and pressed into the molds of a muffin tin. The crust is then filled with a custard made from egg yolks, sugar, cream, flour, and vanilla, and baked in a hot oven until the custard is set and the crust is golden brown.
The origin of Pastel de Nata dates back to the 18th century when Catholic monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon used egg whites to starch their clothes, leaving them with an excess of egg yolks. The monks then used these egg yolks to make Pastel de Nata, which they sold to the public as a means of making money.
The recipe for Pastel de Nata has since evolved, but the basic ingredients remain the same. At Pastelaria Beira Mar, the pastry is made fresh every day using high-quality ingredients, and the recipe has been passed down through generations. The bakery uses a secret blend of flours to make the crust, which is crispy and flaky, with a slightly charred flavor from being baked at high temperatures.
The custard filling is made using only the freshest ingredients, including locally sourced eggs, and is whisked until smooth and creamy before being poured into the crust. The custard is sweet, with hints of vanilla, and has a silky texture that melts in your mouth. The Pastel de Nata is finished off with a light dusting of cinnamon, which adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the custard.
The bakery's interior is cozy and welcoming, with a friendly staff that greets customers with a smile. The walls are lined with shelves filled with various pastries, cakes, and bread, and the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air. The bakery also offers other Portuguese pastries, such as "Bola de Berlim" (a type of doughnut filled with egg cream) and "Folhado de Alheira" (a savory pastry filled with smoked sausage).
At Pastelaria Beira Mar, you can enjoy your Pastel de Nata with a cup of coffee or tea, or you can take a few boxes to go and enjoy them later. The bakery also offers outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying your pastry on a sunny day while taking in the scenic views of the town.
Overall, Pastelaria Beira Mar is a must-visit for anyone who loves Pastel de Nata or wants to experience traditional Portuguese pastries. The bakery's dedication to using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes is evident in every bite of their delicious pastries.