Pastel
A Casa do Ogro offers Pastel, a popular street food in Brazil
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
A Casa Do Ogro
Pastel's origins are debated, but a popular theory suggests it was created by Chinese or Japanese immigrants in Brazil who, facing discrimination during periods of anti-Asian sentiment, disguised their savory pastries as something more familiar to the local palate. This resourceful adaptation helped them integrate and establish their businesses in the Brazilian food scene.
Pastel is deeply ingrained in Brazilian street food culture, often found in bustling markets, street fairs (feiras), and lanchonetes (snack bars). It's a quick, affordable, and delicious snack enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Feiras (Street Markets)
Pastel is a staple food at Brazilian feiras, offering a diverse range of flavors and a lively atmosphere. It's a social experience where people gather, enjoy the food, and catch up with friends and neighbors.
Lanchonetes (Snack Bars)
Many lanchonetes offer pastel as a quick and easy snack, often paired with caldo de cana (sugar cane juice). It's a convenient option for a satisfying meal on the go.
Family Tradition
Making and enjoying pastel can be a family tradition, with each family having their own preferred fillings and techniques. It's a way to pass down culinary heritage and create shared memories.
Pastel offers a delightful combination of crispy, savory, and sometimes spicy flavors, dictated by the filling. The fried dough provides a satisfying crunch, while the fillings introduce a variety of taste sensations.
The flavors of pastel are primarily determined by its filling. Common fillings include ground beef (carne), cheese (queijo), heart of palm (palmito), chicken (frango), shrimp (camarão), and pizza (tomato sauce, mozzarella, and oregano). Some variations include more exotic fillings like bacalhau (salt cod) or even sweet fillings like banana and cinnamon. The flavor profile is further enhanced by accompanying sauces like hot sauce (molho de pimenta) or vinegar sauce (molho de vinagrete).
Freshly Fried is Key
Always opt for pastel that is freshly fried, ensuring maximum crispness and flavor. Avoid pastel that has been sitting out for a long time.
Explore Different Fillings
Don't be afraid to try different fillings to discover your favorites. Each filling offers a unique flavor profile.
Spice it Up
Enhance the flavor of your pastel with hot sauce (molho de pimenta) or vinegar sauce (molho de vinagrete). Experiment to find your preferred level of spiciness.
Pair with Caldo de Cana
The sweetness of caldo de cana perfectly complements the savory and sometimes spicy flavors of pastel. It's a classic Brazilian combination.
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