Lisbon’s Pastel de nata

Lisbon’s single iconic pastry is a palm-size little egg custard in a flaky shell called pastel de nata (or pastéis de nata). It is a creamy calorie laden and delicious not too sweet custard tart available in pastelarias and coffee shops across the city.

The recipe dates back to the 16th century, when the tarts, like many other sweets in Spain and Portugal, were made by nuns in enclosed in convents where they raised chickens and produce for themselves and for artisans. For example, eggs were valuable for their use as a fixative for frescoes and tempera paintings that decorated the interior walls of Catholic churches. Today, locals eat pastéis de nata at breakfast, at the mid-morning merienda, after lunch, or in the evening — or pretty much any time they crave a snack.

An excellent guide to Lisbon’s lovely little tarts can be found here: Eater

If you’re in Lisbon, your visit won’t be complete without trying one of these with a tiny rich cup of espresso!