I first discovered the wonders of the egg tart on a trip to Portugal a few years ago. The Pastiés de Belém in Lisbon were life changing, almost like a creme brulee in pie form – but better. Since then, I have been on the lookout for these delectable treats. It should be no surprise that I enjoyed sublime versions in Macau given that it is a former Portuguese colony. But I wasn’t expecting to find them in Shanghai. An informal taste test ensued and the results are in!
Remarkably, Kentucky Fried Chicken serves a consistently authentic egg tart. I tried several from different outlets just to make sure. Every time, the crust was perfect and the steaming-hot custard was spot on. The heavenly creations come in packs of two because it’s impossible to eat just one. Best of all, there are KFC locations all over China so you can satisfy your craving for these addictive snacks whenever you want. Now we just need to get them added to KFC menus worldwide.
According to Lillian Bakery‘s marketing, that Macanese shop uses a recipe from the 1800s, when egg tarts were invented in Portugal. The crust was thin, flaky and very buttery while the custard hit all the right notes. These tarts just need to be served a little warmer so the custard doesn’t thicken up. Eaten fresh from the oven, these would surely be divine.
My least favorite of the three came from Restaurant Lisboa‘s stand in the Reél Kitchen complex. The crust was too thick and the custard was missing that necessary hint of sweetness. On the positive side, the tarts were piping hot and freshly baked. If you are a crust aficionado, these might be for you.
I’ve seen you. How do you NOT weigh like 500 lbs?
HA! Good genes I guess. Lots of cardio at the gym helps too. Though I have gained about 5 pounds since moving to China. It’s a small price to pay.
As a foodie I was too ashamed to admit that my favourite egg tarts came from KFC. Now I’m OUT AND PROUD!
HA! Love that I’m not the only one 🙂
I love these little tarts. Of the ones I’ve tried, the ones in Portugal were the best. Mom
Me too. It’s hard to beat the original.
Those of Portugal were the best because in a particular place, where they originate and tourists will stop, near the Monastery of Belém, they still have the original secret recipe that others try to copy but not yet succeeded.
Aside mystical, are undoubtedly the best. 😀