pastel

Next Dish: Uru

Pastel is a type of baked pastry that is popular in many countries including Portugal, Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines. It is often filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or fruits. The pastel can be either sweet or savory, depending on the filling. The term 'pastel' comes from the Spanish word 'paste', which means 'pastry'.

Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup cold water

  • 1/2 cup butter

  • 1 egg, beaten

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes

  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper

  • 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots

  • 1/2 cup green peas

  • salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying


Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Stir in water and butter until dough is smooth. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly brown. Stir in onion, garlic, tomatoes, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrots and peas. Season with salt and pepper. Cook and stir until vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

  3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Cut into squares. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture into the center of each square. Fold dough over the filling, and seal edges with a fork. In a small bowl, beat together the remaining egg and 1 tablespoon of water to make a glaze. Brush the sealed edges of the pastries with the egg wash.

  4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large heavy skillet to 365 degrees F (180 degrees C). Fry pastries until golden brown, 5 to 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.