PASTEL DE BELEM: FROM MONASTERY TO YOUR HEART

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History of Pastel de Belém

Pastel de Belém is one of Portugal’s most iconic pastries, originating in Lisbon in the early 19th century. It is a custard tart with a crispy, flaky pastry shell and a creamy, slightly caramelized custard filling, often sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Origins in the Jerónimos Monastery

• In 1820, after the Liberal Revolution in Portugal, monasteries and convents were closed, and many monks and nuns were left without income.
• The Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, Lisbon, began selling custard tarts to support themselves.
• These tarts became known as Pastéis de Belém, named after the area where they were made.

The Secret Recipe & Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém

• In 1834, the monastery closed completely, and the secret recipe was sold to a local businessman.
• He opened the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém in 1837, which still exists today, making these pastries using the original secret recipe.
• Even today, the recipe is known only to a few master bakers at the bakery, and they are made in a “secret room” within the factory.

Difference Between Pastel de Belém & Pastel de Nata

• Pastel de Nata is the generic name for custard tarts found all over Portugal and beyond.
• Pastel de Belém is the original, produced only at the factory in Belém, and is protected as a trademarked name.

Would you like a traditional pastel de nata recipe or more historical details?

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