Cornwall, a region renowned for its stunning coastline and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a diverse and delicious culinary tradition. From iconic Cornish pasties to the freshest seafood, Cornwall’s food scene is a reflection of its maritime history and agricultural abundance. In this blog, we delve into the traditional cuisine of Cornwall and highlight some must-try dishes. And for those staying at Three Mile Beach, there’s an extra treat – the option to enjoy these traditional delights prepared by a private chef.

Cornish Pasties

History and Tradition

The Cornish pasty is perhaps the most iconic dish associated with Cornwall. This savoury pastry, traditionally filled with beef, potatoes, swede, and onions, has been a staple for Cornish tin miners since the 18th century. The crimped edge of the pasty allowed miners to hold their lunch with dirty hands and discard the crust after eating the filling.

Modern Variations

Today, pasties come in a variety of flavours, including vegetarian options with cheese and vegetables, and more contemporary fillings like chicken and leek. Visiting Cornwall isn’t complete without sampling an authentic Cornish pasty from a local bakery.

Stargazy Pie

A Unique Dish

Stargazy Pie is a traditional Cornish fish pie that stands out for its unique presentation. The pie is made with pilchards (sardines) that poke their heads through the pastry crust, giving the appearance of “stargazing.” The pie typically includes eggs, potatoes, and mustard, making for a hearty and flavourful dish.

Celebratory Origins

This dish is often associated with the annual festival in Mousehole, celebrating Tom Bawcock, a fisherman who braved stormy seas to bring back a catch that saved the village from starvation.

Cornish Clotted Cream

Cream Tea Delight

Cornwall is famous for its clotted cream, a thick, rich cream that’s an essential part of a traditional Cornish cream tea. Served with scones, strawberry jam, and a pot of tea, a cream tea is a quintessential Cornish experience. Remember, in Cornwall, it’s always cream first, then jam.

Local Production

Clotted cream is made by heating unpasteurised cow’s milk until the cream rises to the surface and thickens. Many local dairies in Cornwall produce clotted cream, offering visitors the chance to taste it at its freshest.

Fresh Seafood

Abundant Coastal Bounty

Cornwall’s extensive coastline provides an abundance of fresh seafood. From Newlyn to Padstow, fishing towns and villages offer a variety of seafood dishes. Cornish crab, mussels, scallops, and mackerel are just a few of the seafood delights you can enjoy.

Famous Fish and Chips

No trip to Cornwall is complete without indulging in some fish and chips by the sea. Freshly caught fish, battered and fried to perfection, served with crispy chips, is a simple yet unbeatable pleasure.

Saffron Cake

A Sweet Treat

Saffron cake is a traditional Cornish sweet treat made with saffron, dried fruits, and spices. The vibrant yellow colour comes from the saffron, an expensive spice that was historically traded through Cornish ports. This cake is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Historical Significance

The use of saffron in Cornish baking dates back to medieval times, showcasing the region’s historical trade connections. Today, saffron cake remains a popular treat at local bakeries and cafes.

Hevva Cake

Fishermen’s Fare

Hevva cake, also known as heavy cake, is another traditional Cornish bake. It’s made with flour, lard, butter, sugar, and raisins. The name “Hevva” comes from the call fishermen would make when a shoal of fish was spotted, and the grid pattern on top of the cake represents the fishing nets.

Simple and Satisfying

This dense, sweet cake is perfect for a snack or dessert and reflects the simplicity and resourcefulness of Cornish cooking.

Enjoying Traditional Cornish Cuisine at Three Mile Beach

For those staying at Three Mile Beach, you can immerse yourself in the flavours of Cornwall without leaving your accommodation. The private chef service available at Three Mile Beach allows you to experience the best of Cornish cuisine prepared exclusively for you.

Private Chef Service

Customised Dining Experience

Three Mile Beach offers a bespoke private chef service where you can enjoy a customised menu tailored to your tastes. Whether you want to savour traditional Cornish dishes like pasties and fresh seafood or indulge in a cream tea with authentic clotted cream, your private chef will create a memorable dining experience.

Convenience and Comfort

Enjoy the luxury of delicious meals prepared in the comfort of your beach house, perfect for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or special occasions. The private chef service ensures that you can relax and enjoy your holiday without worrying about cooking or dining out.

Booking Your Private Chef

To take advantage of this exclusive service, simply visit the Three Mile Beach Private Chef page for more information and to book your culinary experience.

Conclusion

Cornwall’s traditional cuisine is a reflection of its rich history and coastal bounty. From the hearty Cornish pasty to the indulgent cream tea, the region offers a diverse array of dishes that cater to all tastes. When staying at Three Mile Beach, you can elevate your culinary adventure by having a private chef prepare these traditional delights for you. Embrace the flavours of Cornwall and make your stay at Three Mile Beach truly unforgettable.