Flaky Pie and Tart Pastry

Step 1

Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl.

Step 2

Cut the lard into ½ inch cubes and add to the flour.

Step 3

With a pastry blender, cut the lard into the flour until it resembles very course crumbs.

Step 4

In a measuring cup, whisk the egg with the vinegar, then add enough cold water to make 1 cup of liquid.

Step 5

With a fork, gently mix the liquid into the dry ingredients, just until it starts to bind together. If the mixture is too dry, and not coming together, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until it does.

Step 6

Turn the dough out onto the counter and gently bring it together with your hands.

Step 7

Press it into a round, then cut into 6 equal portions.

Step 8

Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill for at least 20 mintues before using. At this point you can also freeze the dough for use later.

Step 9

After the dough has chilled, prepare and bake your pastry according to your recipe directions.