Brazilian recipe
Easy Homemade Baked Pastel (Pastel Assado)
A crowd-pleasing recipe for homemade Brazilian-style baked savory pies (pastel assado). Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with a seasoned minced beef filling.
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Ingredients
1 kg plain flour
500 g vegetable shortening
1 teaspoon salt
290 ml chilled Guaraná soda
1 kg minced beef
Salt and seasoning to taste for the beef
1 egg yolk for brushing
500 g vegetable shortening
1 teaspoon salt
290 ml chilled Guaraná soda
1 kg minced beef
Salt and seasoning to taste for the beef
1 egg yolk for brushing
Where to find ingredients
Most ingredients like plain flour, salt, eggs, and minced beef are readily available in any local supermarket. For the vegetable shortening, check the baking aisle. The key ingredient, Guaraná soda, is a specific Brazilian soft drink; look for it in the international foods section, specialized Latin American grocery stores, or online marketplaces that carry South American imports. If you cannot find Guaraná soda, a light-colored sparkling lemonade can be used as a substitute to maintain a similar carbonation level, though it will slightly alter the final flavor profile.
Preparation method
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, vegetable shortening, and salt together
- Gradually add the chilled Guaraná soda and mix until you have a smooth, workable dough. Be careful not to overwork it
- Divide the dough into portions and roll them out into circles to prepare for filling
- Prepare the filling by mixing the raw minced beef with salt and your favorite seasonings; do not precook the meat
- Spoon the filling onto one half of each dough circle and fold over to seal, forming the pastel shapes
- Arrange the filled pastéis on a baking tray
- Brush the top of each pastel with the beaten egg yolk
- Bake in a preheated oven at a high temperature (approximately 200°C)
- Bake until the pastéis are golden brown and the dough is cooked through. To check if they are ready, insert a toothpick into one; if it comes out clean and the pastry is firm, they are done
Observations
The baked pastel is a beloved staple in Brazilian kitchens, offering a practical and delicious choice for any occasion. Unlike the deep-fried version, this oven-baked take yields a lighter, non-greasy dough that is equally flavorful. It makes for an excellent snack or appetizer to share during family get-togethers and casual gatherings.
This recipe relies on basic pantry staples and a straightforward preparation method, ensuring a result that always hits the spot. The secret to the dough’s light, tender texture is the addition of Guaraná soda—a unique Brazilian touch—while the savory, well-seasoned minced beef filling provides that authentic, hearty taste everyone craves.
This recipe relies on basic pantry staples and a straightforward preparation method, ensuring a result that always hits the spot. The secret to the dough’s light, tender texture is the addition of Guaraná soda—a unique Brazilian touch—while the savory, well-seasoned minced beef filling provides that authentic, hearty taste everyone craves.
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