Pastel de Carne are delicious Brazilian meat pastries that you'll love! They feature a flaky, deep-fried dough filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and olives. Have you ever tried them hot from the fryer? They're perfect for snacks or parties! To make them, you mix flour, salt, and lard for the dough, then sauté the filling ingredients before wrapping it all together. When you fry them until golden brown, the taste is incredible! Plus, try pairing them with cold drinks. Curious about more ways to enjoy these tasty treats? You'll discover exciting variations and tips! ��️

History

The history of Pastel de Carne reveals a fascinating blend of culinary influences that shaped this beloved Brazilian pastry. Did you know that Chinese and Japanese immigrants brought their cooking styles to Brazil? They adapted local ingredients, creating a unique dish.

Pastel de Carne is typically made with a flaky, deep-fried dough, filled with seasoned ground beef, olives, and spices. It's lighter than an empanada, giving it a special texture that many love. This dish has roots in various cultures, much like the sustainable practices found in modern gardening, such as eco-friendly composting.

You can find these tasty pastries in pastelarias, especially after World War II. Today, they're a staple of Brazilian street food, enjoyed at fairs and gatherings. When you bite into a Pastel de Carne, you're tasting a rich history and culture that brings people together!

Recipe

Pastel De Carne

Pastel de Carne is a delicious Brazilian pastry that combines a crispy, flaky dough with a savory ground beef filling, making it a popular snack or appetizer. The dough is simple to prepare and can be rolled out to create a perfect base for the rich filling. This dish is often enjoyed hot and pairs wonderfully with cold beverages and zesty dipping sauces, making it perfect for gatherings or as a tasty treat any time of day.

To enhance your food storage options and keep leftovers fresh, consider wrapping them in eco-friendly options like compostable cling wraps that help reduce plastic waste.

The filling is equally important, as the combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and ground beef creates a flavorful and satisfying center. With the addition of green olives, parsley, and green onions, the filling has a delightful burst of flavor that complements the crispy exterior. Whether you're making these for a party or a cozy night in, Pastel de Carne is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups plain flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp lard or olive oil
• Cachaça
• Vinegar
• Warm water
• ¼ onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz ground beef
• ¼ cup sliced green olives
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp sliced green onions
• Vegetable or peanut oil (for frying)

Cooking Instructions:

To prepare Pastel de Carne, start by making the dough by combining the flour and salt in a bowl. Rub in the lard or olive oil until the mixture resembles crumbs, then add cachaça, vinegar, and enough warm water to form a smooth dough. Allow it to rest while you prepare the filling by sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.

Add the ground beef, cooking until browned, then mix in the sliced olives, parsley, and green onions. Roll out the rested dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut it into 4×8 inch rectangles. Place 1 ½ tbsp of the meat mixture on one half of each rectangle, seal the edges with water, and fry the pastries in preheated oil at 375°F for about 1 minute on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, ascertain your oil is at the correct temperature for frying, as this will help achieve that perfect crispy texture. You can experiment with different fillings, such as chicken or cheese, for a variation on the classic recipe.

Additionally, make sure to seal the edges of the pastries thoroughly to prevent any filling from leaking out during frying. Enjoy your Pastel de Carne hot and fresh for the ultimate taste experience!

Final Thoughts

There's something truly special about enjoying a warm Pastel de Carne fresh from the fryer.

The flaky, golden crust, made when the *dough is smooth* and rolled out perfectly, wraps around assorted fillings that excite your taste buds.

Rachael Ray bakeware sets, known for their durable materials, can enhance your baking experience, ensuring your pastries come out just right.

You'll want to *seal the edges with a fork* for that authentic touch.

When you *remove from heat*, consider drizzling some extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor.

Pair it with a *cold beer*, and you've got a delightful snack!

Brazilian recipes like this one truly reflect the rich culture and history of Brazil.

So, why not try making them at home?

I highly recommend gathering friends for a pastel party—who wouldn't love that?