The pastel is a beloved Brazilian snack, renowned for its crispy, golden crust and flavorful fillings. Originating from Portuguese culinary traditions, pastels have become an integral part of Brazilian cuisine, enjoyed at street markets, parties, and family gatherings. These deep-fried pastries are typically filled with a variety of savory ingredients, such as ground beef, cheese, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. The versatility of the pastel makes it a favorite choice for quick bites and festive occasions alike.
The pastel, known as "pastel de feira" in Brazil, has roots that trace back to Portuguese pastries brought to Brazil during colonial times. Over the centuries, the pastel has evolved, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to become a distinct Brazilian treat. It became popular particularly in street food markets, where vendors serve it hot and fresh, often accompanied by a cold beverage.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Filling of your choice (e.g., ground beef, cheese, chicken, shrimp, vegetables)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil, stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a dough.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, approximately 6 inches in diameter.
6. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling on one half of the dough circle.
7. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
9. Fry the pastels in batches until golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes:
- Feel free to experiment with various fillings to suit your taste. Popular choices include combinations like beef with cheese, chicken with spinach, or shrimp with herbs.
- For a healthier option, bake the pastels at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until crisp and golden, instead of frying.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Calories: Approximately 910 calories
- Carbohydrates: About 190 grams
- Protein: Around 24 grams
- Fat: Approximately 2 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams (varies based on added salt)
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate)
- Minerals: Provides iron and calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: All-purpose flour is a primary source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content. It also contributes to dietary fiber if using whole wheat flour, which aids in digestion.
2. 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Calories: 0 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1,150 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: 0 grams
- Minerals: Contains sodium
- Nutritional Benefit: Salt enhances the flavor of foods and is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive salt intake can lead to health issues like high blood pressure.
3. 3/4 cup warm water
- Calories: 0 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: 0 grams
- Minerals: 0 grams
- Nutritional Benefit: Water is vital for hydration, aiding in digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation.
4. 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Calories: Approximately 120 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: About 14 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin E
- Minerals: Minimal amounts
- Nutritional Benefit: Vegetable oil provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
5. Filling of your choice (e.g., ground beef, cheese, chicken, shrimp, vegetables)
- Ground beef (1/4 cup cooked):
- Calories: About 200 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 17 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Sodium: 70 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
- Vitamins: Provides B vitamins, especially B12
- Minerals: Contains iron and zinc
- Nutritional Benefit: Ground beef is a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, and iron, crucial for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Cheese (1 ounce, cheddar):
- Calories: Approximately 115 calories
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 7 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Sodium: 200 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
- Vitamins: High in calcium and vitamin A
- Minerals: Rich in calcium and phosphorus
- Nutritional Benefit: Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, important for bone health.
- Chicken (1/4 cup cooked):
- Calories: About 110 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 21 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Sodium: 50 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 60 milligrams
- Vitamins: Provides B vitamins, especially niacin and B6
- Minerals: Contains phosphorus and selenium
- Nutritional Benefit: Chicken is a lean source of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair, and is also low in fat.
- Shrimp (1/4 cup cooked):
- Calories: About 60 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 14 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Sodium: 140 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 140 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin B12 and iodine
- Minerals: Rich in selenium and zinc
- Nutritional Benefit: Shrimp is high in protein and low in fat, and it provides essential nutrients like iodine and selenium.
- Vegetables (1/2 cup cooked):
- Calories: Varies by type (approximately 25-50 calories)
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 0-1 gram
- Sodium: 0-50 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
- Minerals: Contains potassium and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support overall health and digestion.
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