Welcome to our blog! Today, we are learning how to make incredible homemade pastéis (Brazilian fried hand pies), perfect for serving at your holiday parties like Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Who can resist a crispy, golden-fried pastry filled with irresistible flavors? The recipe we’re sharing today is simple, delicious, and guaranteed to please every palate. Get ready to discover the secret to professional-style fried pies that will wow your guests. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for the Pastéis:
- 8 cups (approx. 1 kg) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) water
- 2/3 cup (150 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Fillings of your choice: mozzarella cheese, guava paste (goiabada), ham, oregano, or ground meat.
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center.
- Add the water and vegetable oil into the center.
- Add the salt. Mix everything together until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually adjust the consistency with more water if needed. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rest for 15 minutes, knead it briefly again, and divide into portions to roll out with a rolling pin.
- Once the dough is rolled thin, it’s time to assemble. Place a small spoonful of your favorite filling in the center of each piece of dough. Fold it in half and press the edges firmly to seal. Use a pastry cutter or a fork to trim and ensure the edges are tightly closed.
- If you choose a classic combination like cheese and guava paste, the mix of sweet and savory is a total crowd-pleaser! Remember to lightly mist the dough with water if it starts to dry out while you work.
- Heat oil to approximately 350°F (180°C). Carefully deep-fry the pastéis until they are golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot to ensure the perfect texture. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Pro Tip:
To prevent the dough from drying out while rolling, lightly mist it with a little water. This technique makes the dough much easier to handle and seal. Give it a try!
Prep time:
The estimated time to prepare the dough, roll, fill, and fry the pastéis is approximately 1 hour.
Yield:
This recipe makes about 100 small pastéis, perfect for serving as appetizers at events or parties.
Did you know?
Pastéis are a Brazilian staple, synonymous with street markets and celebrations. Whether filled with cheese, savory meats, or sweet guava paste, the pastel is a versatile dish that everyone loves. Plus, you can freeze them for up to 30 days, making them a super practical make-ahead appetizer for any occasion.
Making pastéis from scratch is a rewarding and delicious experience. With this simple recipe, you’ll have crispy, mouth-watering appetizers perfect for impressing your family and friends this holiday season. Get creative with your fillings and enjoy the festivities with this iconic treat!
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. May your pastéis be the star of every celebration!