Brazilian recipe
Easy Baked Savory Pastries (Pastel assado)
Discover how to make golden, flaky homemade baked pastries filled with seasoned ground beef. A perfect crowd-pleasing snack for any occasion.
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Ingredients
1 kg all-purpose flour
500 g vegetable shortening
1 tsp salt
290 ml chilled Guaraná soda
1 kg ground beef
Salt and seasonings to taste for the beef
1 egg yolk for brushing
500 g vegetable shortening
1 tsp salt
290 ml chilled Guaraná soda
1 kg ground beef
Salt and seasonings to taste for the beef
1 egg yolk for brushing
Where to find ingredients
You can find all-purpose flour, vegetable shortening, and basic seasonings at local grocery stores and supermarkets in Namibia. The meat should be purchased fresh from the butchery section. For the Guaraná soda, look for it in specialized imported goods aisles or international food shops, as it is a unique Brazilian ingredient; if unavailable, a clear lemon-lime soda can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the traditional flavor profile.
Preparation method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, vegetable shortening, and salt.
- Gradually pour in the chilled Guaraná soda, mixing until a cohesive, smooth dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough.
- Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll them out to create individual pastry discs.
- Prepare the filling by mixing the raw ground beef with salt and your choice of herbs and spices; do not precook the meat.
- Place a portion of the beef mixture onto one half of each disc and fold over to seal the edges, forming the pastries.
- Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet.
- Brush the top of each pastry with the egg yolk to promote a golden finish.
- Place in a preheated oven at a high temperature (approximately 200°C).
- Bake until the crust is golden and the pastry is fully cooked. To check for doneness, pierce with a toothpick; if it comes out clean and the dough is set, they are ready to serve.
Observations
The baked pastel is a true staple of Brazilian culinary culture, offering a practical and savory alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. By opting for the oven-baked method, you achieve a lighter, crispier crust that remains tender on the inside, making these pastries an excellent choice for casual snacks or as finger food during social gatherings.
This recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients and a straightforward preparation process. The secret to the dough's signature texture lies in the addition of chilled Guaraná soda—a unique component that helps ensure a delicate crumb. Paired with a robust, well-seasoned ground beef filling, these pastries are designed to be a hit with both family and guests.
This recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients and a straightforward preparation process. The secret to the dough's signature texture lies in the addition of chilled Guaraná soda—a unique component that helps ensure a delicate crumb. Paired with a robust, well-seasoned ground beef filling, these pastries are designed to be a hit with both family and guests.
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