A pasty is a baked pastry that is traditionally associated with Cornwall, South West England, but has spread all over the British Isles and beyond. It is made by placing an uncooked filling, typically meat and vegetables, in the middle of a flat shortcrust pastry circle, bringing the edges together in the middle, and crimping over the top to form a seal before baking. The dishs strength lies in its practicality, as it is a mix of complex carbs and protein that values sustainability over gastronomic gratification. The pasty has a long and rich heritage, and its origins are unclear, though there are many references to them throughout historical documents and fiction. The most famous of all British dishes, Cornish pasties, enjoy a unique and interesting history that goes back centuries. They were originally developed for Cornish miners who worked deep underground and needed a lunch that would meet the demands of their work environment. Today, pasties with many different fillings are made, and some shops specialize in selling them.