Pastel is a popular Brazilian street food, consisting of crispy, deep-fried pastry filled with various delicious ingredients. Common fillings include cheese, meat, chicken, and heart of palm, making it a versatile snack that appeals to many tastes. Here’s a traditional recipe to help you make Brazilian Pastel at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon cachaça or white vinegar (optional, for crispiness)
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for cheese pastel)
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (for chicken pastel)
- 1/2 cup chopped heart of palm (for heart of palm pastel)
- 1/2 cup cooked ground beef (for meat pastel)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the vegetable oil, warm water, and cachaça or vinegar (if using).
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Fillings:
- Cheese Filling: Simply use shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Chicken Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for a few minutes until well combined.
- Heart of Palm Filling: Combine the chopped heart of palm with a little salt and pepper.
- Meat Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Divide the dough into smaller portions. On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Assemble the Pastéis:
- Place a tablespoon of the filling of your choice in the center of each rectangle. Fold the dough over to form a pocket and press the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Fry the Pastéis:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pastéis in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve the pastéis hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces such as hot sauce, ketchup, or salsa.
Tips for Perfect Pastel:
- Crispy Dough: Adding cachaça or vinegar to the dough helps to achieve a crispy texture.
- Sealing the Edges: Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
- Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying and to avoid greasiness.
Cultural Significance:
Pastel is a beloved street food in Brazil, often enjoyed at local markets and fairs. Its versatility in fillings and its crispy, delicious nature make it a favorite snack for people of all ages. Sharing a pastel is a great way to experience the flavors of Brazilian street food culture.
Making Brazilian Pastel at home allows you to enjoy a delicious and versatile snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These crispy pastries with their flavorful fillings are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or as a treat, this traditional recipe will bring a taste of Brazil to your kitchen.