Palm Heart Pastel Filling (Recheio de pastel de palmito)

300 g chopped palm hearts
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
200 ml milk
salt, to taste
grated nutmeg, to taste

Look for palm hearts in the canned vegetables aisle or the refrigerated produce section; the rest are standard supermarket staples. If needed, a plain all-purpose flour substitute can be used, but palm hearts are the key ingredient.

This creamy palm heart filling is ideal for pastéis, pies, and savoury snacks. With quick preparation and easy-to-find ingredients, it delivers a rich, homemade flavour that suits any occasion. It is a practical choice for the kitchen and gives you a tasty result.

**Ingredients:**
* 300 g chopped palm hearts
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, chopped
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 200 ml milk
* Salt, to taste
* Grated nutmeg, to taste

**Method:**
In a pan, heat the butter and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
Add the chopped palm hearts and sauté for a few more minutes.
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the palm hearts and stir well to combine.
Add the milk gradually, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until you have a smooth cream.
Season with salt and grated nutmeg to taste.
Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the filling thickens and becomes creamy.
Remove from the heat and let it cool completely before using it to fill your pastéis or savoury snacks.