The Pastel de Carne, a savory meat pie, is a beloved dish originating from South America, particularly popular in countries like Argentina and Uruguay. This traditional recipe typically features a flavorful filling of minced beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and spices, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. With its combination of hearty ingredients and rich flavors, Pastel de Carne has become a staple in South American cuisine, enjoyed as a comforting meal or a festive treat for special occasions. Its history traces back to European culinary influences brought by immigrants to the region, evolving over time to become a cherished dish with regional variations across different countries. Whether served hot or cold, Pastel de Carne continues to delight food enthusiasts worldwide with its delicious taste and cultural significance.

Ingredients:

- 500g minced beef

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

- ½ cup pitted green olives, sliced

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 package of ready-made pastry dough (or homemade if preferred)

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the minced beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.

3. Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

5. Roll out the pastry dough and line a pie dish with it.

6. Spread half of the beef mixture onto the pastry crust.

7. Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs and olives on top of the beef mixture.

8. Cover with the remaining beef mixture.

9. Place another layer of pastry dough over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.

10. Use a knife to make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

11. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

12. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

13. Slice and enjoy your delicious Pastel de Carne!

Nutrition Value:

1. 500g minced beef:

  - Calories: Approximately 1200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 100g

  - Fat: Approximately 90g

  - Sodium: Varies based on seasoning, approximately 100mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 300mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair.

2. 1 onion, finely chopped:

  - Calories: Approximately 45 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and minerals: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. Onions also contain antioxidants such as quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and heart health benefits.

3. 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced:

  - Calories: Approximately 140 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 12g

  - Fat: Approximately 10g

  - Sodium: Approximately 125mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 370mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins (such as vitamin A, D, E, and B vitamins), minerals (including iron and zinc), and healthy fats. Eggs also contain choline, which is essential for brain health.

4. ½ cup pitted green olives, sliced:

  - Calories: Approximately 70 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 6g

  - Sodium: Approximately 650mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy. Olives are also a good source of vitamin E, iron, and dietary fiber. They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may provide various health benefits.

5. 1 teaspoon paprika:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Varies, but usually low

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and antioxidants such as capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties.

6. Salt and pepper to taste:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies based on quantity used

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Sodium is necessary for electrolyte balance in the body, but excessive consumption should be monitored. Black pepper contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption.

7. 1 package of ready-made pastry dough (or homemade if preferred):

  - Nutritional information varies significantly depending on the brand and type of pastry dough used. Ready-made pastry dough typically contains flour, fat (such as butter or vegetable shortening), water, salt, and sometimes sugar. Homemade pastry dough allows for greater control over ingredients and nutritional content. Generally, pastry dough is high in carbohydrates and fat, providing energy but limited in vitamins and minerals. Opt for whole wheat or whole grain pastry dough for added fiber and nutrients.