Yes, you read it right. I have a love affair with the Brazilian pastel.
It started in my youth; I was nine or eight, and my aunt made some for my birthday. I had too many pastéis at the time—unassailed by the health worries plaguing me now—and it felt great. They were crunchy, full of aroma, tasty...
Oh, but you're not here to know about love affairs and stuff, sure. You want to know more about our pasteizinhos.
Well, I'll take off my lover hat and put on my teacher hat.
Let's go.
Brazilian pastel is a popular street food and snack in Brazil. It's made of a deep-fried dough filled with sweet or savory fillings, and it's a great side dish when you're having a few drinks on Sunday with your family.
In this article, we will explore the history, regional variations, and different types of Brazilian pastel.
We will also provide you with mouth-watering recipes and tips to make the perfect pastelzinho at home.
A Brief History of Brazilian Pastel
The history of this pastry is still debated, with some attributing it to Chinese immigrants adapting their spring rolls to Brazilian taste, while others credit Japanese immigrants adapting Chinese fried wontons to sell as snacks at street markets. Nevertheless, pastel has become a staple of Brazilian street food culture, with vendors selling it at fairs, markets, and street corners across the country.
Why you should know more about the Brazilian Pastel in the Brazilian Culture
Besides being a popular street food, Brazilian pastel is also an important part of Brazilian cuisine.
It is a food that brings people together, often consumed with friends and family and symbolizes Brazilian culture.
It's a dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages and is commonly eaten as a snack or a light meal.
Many people see in Brazil is that the Japanese and Chinese immigrants and descendants in São Paulo are known for their great pastel.
One thing they may not know is that this fact has everything to do with...
The possible origins of Brazilian pastel!
Even though our pastelzinho is considered typically Brazilian, its origin is still debated. But it is widely believed to have been introduced to Brazil by Japanese immigrants in the 20th century.
Possible Chinese and Japanese Influence
According to Wikipedia, some historians believe that Brazilian pastel has its roots in Chinese immigrants adapting their spring rolls to Brazilian taste.
Others credit Japanese immigrants for adapting Chinese fried wontons to sell as snacks at street markets.
(By the way, I never thought of frying wontons, and now that I've seen pictures of them, I want to try them.)
Brazilian pastel has become an integral part of Brazilian cuisine and culture regardless of origin.
When it was adapted to our Brazilian taste
As this pastry was introduced to Brazil by immigrants, it was modified to suit Brazilian taste.
The fillings of the pastel were adjusted to include popular Brazilian ingredients such as cheese, beef, and heart of palm (usually with cheese or chicken).
As a result, Brazilian pastel has evolved into a unique and delicious snack with a distinctly Brazilian flavor.
I'm not sure if pastel's predecessors and cousins are that salty. We like a lot of salt (and sugar) in our food in Brazil. If you've tried our food, you might agree with me.
And pastel has cousins, you know
Brazilian pastel is similar to other fried snacks found in different parts of the world.
For instance, in India, samosas are popular deep-fried snacks filled with spiced vegetables or meat.
Similarly, Mexican empanadas are deep-fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
But one big difference lies in the dough.
Pastel dough is made with wheat flour, water, and sometimes eggs and oil, which results in a thin and crispy texture after deep frying.
On the other hand, samosas are typically made with a thicker dough that usually includes all-purpose flour, salt, and oil.
Empanada dough is more similar to pastel but may also include cornmeal. Empanadas can be baked or fried depending on regional preferences. Although pastel can also be baked, it isn't the same as the crispy, crunchy ones we prepare as street food.
Types of Brazilian Pastel
Brazilian pastel comes in various types, each with its unique flavor and filling. Whether you are in the mood for something savory or sweet, there is a Brazilian pastel for everyone.
Savory Pastel
Savory pastel is the most common type of Brazilian pastel and is often consumed as a snack or light meal.
It's made of a thin crust of pastry dough, filled with various savory ingredients, and deep-fried to golden perfection (if you see it, you'll know what I'm talking about). The fillings can range from beef, cheese, chicken, heart of palm, shrimp, and calabresa sausage, to name a few.
Sweet Pastel
Sweet pastel is a dessert version of the traditional Brazilian pastel and is filled with sweet ingredients such as guava paste, banana, and chocolate. I hate this with all might, but I know that some people have a sweet tooth that needs to be soothed, so I'm listing it here for your benefit.
Vegetarian Pastel
Vegetarian pastel is a popular type of Brazilian pastel with meat-free fillings. It is perfect for vegetarians and those who prefer a "healthier" option (well, the quotation marks are deserved, as you'll see). The fillings can include vegetables, tofu, cheese, and other meat substitutes.
Regional Variations
Brazil is a large country with diverse cultures and cuisines, and as a result, there are many regional variations of Brazilian pastel.
For example, the pastel from the state of Bahia can also be filled with vatapá, a popular dish made with shrimp, coconut, and peanuts.
In contrast, the pastel from the state of Goiás may be filled with chicken and pequi, a local fruit with a unique flavor.
Common Pastel Fillings
Brazilian pastel is a versatile snack that can be filled with various ingredients. Here are some of the most popular Brazilian pastel fillings:
Beef
Beef is a popular filling and is often combined with onions and other spices to create a flavorful and juicy filling. It is usually paired with a side of hot sauce or salsa for added flavor.
Cheese
Cheese is another popular filling and can be paired with many other ingredients, such as ham, chicken, or vegetables. It is a perfect filling for those who prefer a milder flavor.
Chicken
Chicken is a popular filling for those who prefer a lighter option. It is often paired with cheese or vegetables to create a savory and filling snack.
Heart of Palm
Heart of palm is a popular filling for vegetarian pastel and is often combined with cheese or other vegetables to create a delicious and healthy snack. It is a perfect option for those who prefer a lighter and healthier option.
Shrimp
Shrimp is a popular filling for those who prefer seafood. It is often combined with cheese or other vegetables to create a flavorful and juicy filling.
Calabresa Sausage
Calabresa sausage is a popular filling and is often combined with onions and other spices to create a spicy and flavorful filling. It is a perfect option for those who prefer a meatier and spicier filling.
Guava Paste
Guava paste is a popular sweet filling and is often paired with cheese to create a delicious and unique flavor called "Romeo and Juliet" (pastel Romeu e Julieta). It is a perfect dessert option for those with a sweet tooth.
How to Make Brazilian Pasteis
Making pastel at home is easier than you might think.
With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious and authentic Brazilian pastel that will impress your friends and family. Here is a basic recipe for making this tasty pastry:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Oil for frying
Filling (traditional beef filling)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the water, egg, and olive oil and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Add the onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the onion is soft.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is thin and about 6 inches in diameter.
- Spoon a tablespoon of the filling onto the center of the dough.
- Fold the dough in half and press the edges together to seal the filling inside. We usually press it with a fork.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F.
- Fry the pastels in the hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain the pastels on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pastel
- Use a variety of fillings to create different flavor combinations.
- Make the filling ahead of time for convenience; it isn’t a deal breaker, but if you don’t make the filling beforehand, you’ll likely be in a hurry to finish it.
- Use a deep-fryer or a large pot for frying to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with different dough recipes to find the best one for you.
- Serve the pastels with hot sauce or salsa for extra flavor.
- Below you'll find a recipe (not mine) that really looks good!
But if you don't want to make it yourself...
Pastel is a popular street food in Brazil and can be found in many markets, street vendors, and restaurants nationwide. Here are some places where you can find it:
Street Fairs and Markets
Street fairs and markets are the most common places to find it in Brazil. You can find a variety of pastéis with different fillings, and they are often made fresh to order. Some of the most popular street fairs and markets in Brazil include:
- Feira da Liberdade in São Paulo
- Feira do Rio Antigo in Rio de Janeiro
- Feira de São Cristóvão in Rio de Janeiro
- Feira Hippie de Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro
Restaurants and Cafés
Many restaurants and cafés in Brazil serve this savory pastry as an appetizer or snack. They often have a variety of fillings to choose from and are a great way to try different flavor combinations. Some popular restaurants and cafés that serve Brazilian pastel include:
Rei do Pastel in Belo Horizonte
Homemade
If you can't find Brazilian pastel near you, you can always make it at home. The recipe is simple, and you can experiment with different fillings to create your own unique flavor combinations. Plus, making Brazilian pastel at home is a fun and delicious way to experience Brazilian cuisine.
Health Benefits of Brazilian Pastel
Okay, this is a stretch, but bear with me: if you need to provide a rationale to justify eating that extra oily, fat-rich pastel, here are some health benefits for you to think of:
Source of Protein
It is often filled with ground beef, chicken, or shrimp, which are all good sources of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and can also help to keep you feeling full.
Source of Carbohydrates
The dough is made from flour, which is a good source of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide the body with energy and are essential for proper brain function.
Source of Vitamins and Minerals
Depending on the filling, it can also be a good source of vitamins and minerals. For example, pastel filled with vegetables or heart of palm can provide the body with essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
Moderation is Key
While Brazilian pastel does have some nutritional value, it is also high in calories, fat, and sodium. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, it is important to choose fillings that are lower in fat and sodium to make the snack healthier.
Conclusion
Brazilian pastel is a delicious and popular street food in Brazil that locals and tourists enjoy.
While its origins are debated, there is no denying this savory pastry's popularity and unique flavor combinations.
Whether you try it at a street fair or a restaurant or make it at home, Brazilian pastel is a must-try food for anyone visiting Brazil or looking to experience Brazilian cuisine.
Just remember to enjoy it in moderation and choose lower fat and sodium fillings for a healthier snack.
More Mouth-Watering Reads
We hope you enjoyed learning about Brazilian pastel and its fascinating history and flavor combinations. If you want to learn more about Brazilian cuisine and culture, check out our article on traditional Brazilian food.
And don't forget to check out our other food-related content for more delicious recipes and culinary adventures. And leave us a comment if you’d like to share your love story with one of our Brazilian foods!