Mangu

pastechi

Next Dish: Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding

Pastechi is a traditional Aruban pastry, often filled with cheese, chicken, or ground beef. The dough is typically made from flour, butter, and eggs, then filled and folded into a half-moon shape before being deep-fried. This dish is commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack, and is similar to Latin American empanadas. It is a significant part of Aruban and Antillean cuisine.

flour

butter

salt

water

vegetable oil

garlic

paprika

gouda cheese

beef

cumin

dried pepper

egg

onion

Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup ice water

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/2 pound ground beef

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/2 cup shredded Gouda cheese

  • 1 egg, beaten


Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, tossing with a fork until a ball forms. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook and stir until tender. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese. Let the mixture cool.

  3. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut with a round cookie cutter. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

  5. Brush the pastries with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm.