I tried my hand at Mrs. Beeton's lobster patties this week, eager to transport myself to a Victorian seaside picnic. The first surprise came when I removed the lids of the puff-paste cases to reveal the little bread cushions inside, a clever trick to keep the lobster mixture from burning. It was a delightful touch, a testament to Mrs. Beeton's practicality. This recipe is a perfect fit for the modern weeknight cook with a penchant for history. The patties themselves are straightforward to assemble, and the lobster mixture comes together quickly. I found the anchovy sauce added a depth of flavor that was both surprising and satisfying. The result was a elegant, savory bite that would be just as at home in a modern bistro as it would have been in a Victorian drawing-room. Next time, I'll serve them with a simple green salad and a crisp white wine.