How to Make Hot Water Crust Pastry

Step 1

Place the lard and water in a small saucepan over medium heat until the lard has melted and the mixture is boiling.

Step 2

Meanwhile, sift the flours and salt into a medium bowl.

Step 3

Once the mixture is boiling, immediately pour it into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.  The dough will appear too dry at first, but it will come together as you work it.

Step 4

Knead in the bowl or on a work surface until it's smooth and has cooled a little.

Step 5

Use immediately for a savory pie, or keep over gentle heat in a double boiler until needed.  For free-form pies, shape the pastry cases while it is warm, but chill them in the fridge to harden before adding the fillings.