My sister gave me this delicious souvenir from Lisbon today, a box of Pasteis de Belem. Soft vanilla-scented custard held by ribbons of crisp pastry with a sachet of powdered sugar.
I've missed this daily treat since I moved my studio from South London where there is a large Portugese community. Since then I've been searching for the perfect recipe. My homemade vanilla custard is passable (brightened with a little lemon zest) but the pastry has to be authentic, whether homemade/good quality puff or even filo it's no match for the real thing!
She also gave me this beautifully wrapped parcel of tinned sardines!
