Deliciousness - Pastéis de Belém

By Ana Almeida aka TANGRAMartworks

The Pastel de Belém is probably the most famous Portuguese Deliciousness, the most desirable custard tart pastry of Portugal – also known as Pastel de Nata. It was created before the 18th century by Catholic monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in the parish of Santa Maria de Belém, in Lisbon.

After the Liberal Revolution of 1820, the religious orders were expelled and the production of Pastéis de Nata was passed to the nearby Casa Pastéis de Belém.

The recipe is a well kept secret in the hands of "Oficina do Segredo", were the masters of pastry continue to bake them. Since 1837, the Portuguese and visitors from all around the world seek in Belém for these sweet tarts, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, waiting patiently in long queues for them.

all photos by Ana Almeida - TANGRAMartworks

Why don't you join us in Belém to taste this delicacy? Don't you think it's the perfect excuse to visit Lisbon and Portugal?