Pastel

Pastel is a popular Brazilian snack that has gained international recognition for its delicious and crispy pastry filled with savory fillings. This handheld treat is enjoyed as street food, at parties, or as a quick and satisfying snack. In this article, we will explore the origins and characteristics of pastel, as well as provide you with a recipe to make this delectable snack at home.

The Origins and Cultural Significance of Pastel: Pastel originated in China and was brought to Brazil by Japanese immigrants in the early 20th century. Over time, it became an integral part of Brazilian cuisine, loved by people of all ages. In Brazil, pastel is often associated with street food vendors, who offer a wide variety of fillings to choose from. It is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even as a dessert when filled with sweet fillings.

Key Characteristics of Pastel:

1. Crispy Pastry: The defining feature of a pastel is its thin and crispy pastry. The dough is typically made from flour, water, and a pinch of salt. The pastry is rolled out into thin sheets and then folded over the filling before being fried until golden and crispy.
2. Savory Fillings: Pastel can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients, allowing for endless flavor combinations. Popular fillings include ground beef, cheese, chicken, ham, sausage, shrimp, and vegetables. Some regions in Brazil even have unique regional fillings that reflect local culinary traditions.
3. Versatility: Pastel can be enjoyed in different ways depending on personal preferences. It can be eaten plain or dipped into sauces such as hot sauce, ketchup, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce called vinagrete. Some people also enjoy adding a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe for Homemade Pastel:

Ingredients: For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Filling (choose one or a combination):

• Ground beef
• Shredded cheese
• Shredded chicken
• Ham
• Sausage
• Shrimp
• Vegetables (such as diced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the water and knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 15 minutes.
2. While the dough is resting, prepare the fillings of your choice. Cook and season the fillings according to your preference. Ensure that the fillings are cooled before assembling the pastel.
3. After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet. Cut the dough into square or rectangular shapes, about 4-5 inches in size.
4. Place a spoonful of the desired filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket and seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers or using a fork to crimp the edges.
5. In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil to a medium-high temperature. Carefully place the pastel pockets into the hot oil, frying a few at a time, until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove the pastel from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
6. Serve the hot pastel immediately and enjoy its crispy exterior and flavorful filling. You can serve them plain or with your favorite dipping sauces.