The Monkey Tree

200g self-raising flour

1 level teaspoon of salt

A pinch of cayenne pepper

50g lard

50g margarine

125g grated cheese

1-2 eggs yolks

Cold water to mix

1. Pre-heat oven gas mark 4, 180°C, 350°F.
2. Sift flour, salt and pepper into a bowl.
3. Add the fat, cut in small pieces with a knife.  Rub it in, using your fingertips until the mixture is like fine breadcrumbs.  Add cheese.
4. Mix in egg, then add water 2 teaspoons at a time, stirring using a round bladed knife until the mixture forms large lumps.
5. Use your fingertips to bring the mixture together and knead lightly into a ball.
6. Roll out on a floured board, taking care not to stretch the pastry, then using a knife cut into strips 1cm wide by 12cm long (½ inch by 5 inches).
7. Place on a baking tray, brush will a little beaten egg, put into the oven for 20 minutes or until golden.