Refrigerator Pastry
A versatile and flaky pastry dough that can be prepared in advance, perfect for homemade pies and shells, offering convenience and delicious homemade flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend or sift together the flour and salt.
- Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in the shortening until finely incorporated.
- Sprinkle cold water over the mixture gradually, mixing lightly with a fork until all the flour is dampened.
- Turn the dough onto a large piece of wax paper and form into a ball.
- Wrap securely and store in the refrigerator until needed.
- To use, cut off the required portion, roll out, and use for your recipe.
- This pastry can be kept refrigerated for 3 to 4 weeks and used as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier pastry, ensure your shortening is very cold before cutting it into the flour. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Consider adding a tablespoon of vinegar to the cold water for added tenderness. This recipe is versatile; you can use it in both sweet and savory dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pastry is perfect for pies, tarts, and quiches. For a delicious pairing, consider serving your baked goods with One Day Pickles for a tangy contrast. You can also use it as a base for savory pot pies or sweet fruit desserts, making it a great addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped dough in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To use frozen pastry, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. Ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerator Pastry contains roughly 3196 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 360g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pastry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pastry dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. This makes it convenient to have fresh pastry on hand whenever you need it. Just remember to wrap it securely to maintain its freshness.
What can I use this pastry for?
This pastry is incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of dishes, including sweet pies, savory quiches, and tarts. It's a great base for both fruit fillings and hearty meat mixtures, making it a staple in many kitchens.
How do I know when the pastry is rolled out correctly?
The pastry should be rolled out to about 1/8 inch thick for optimal texture when baked. It should be even without any tears or cracks. A lightly floured surface helps prevent sticking while rolling. If it’s too soft, refrigerate it briefly before rolling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).