Pastel
A thin-crust fried pastry filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables. It is commonly found in Brazilian bakeries.
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.
Pastel's origin is often attributed to Asian immigrants, particularly from Japan, who adapted their culinary traditions to suit local ingredients and tastes in Brazil during the 20th century. To avoid discrimination during World War II, many Japanese vendors adopted Portuguese-sounding names and integrated their food into Brazilian society, leading to the popularization of pastel.
Pastel is deeply ingrained in Brazilian street food culture, representing a quick, affordable, and delicious meal option.
Street Food Staple
Pastel is commonly found at street fairs (feiras), markets, and lanchonetes (snack bars) throughout Brazil, offering a readily available and satisfying snack or light meal.
Feira Culture
Visiting a feira is a social event in Brazil, and enjoying a pastel with a sugar cane juice (caldo de cana) is a quintessential part of the experience.
Regional Variations
While the basic concept remains the same, regional variations in fillings and even dough thickness can be found across Brazil, reflecting local tastes and ingredients.
Pastel boasts a delightful combination of savory and crispy textures, with a variety of fillings contributing to its diverse flavor profile.
The primary flavor profile is savory, deriving from fillings such as ground beef, shredded chicken, cheese (often mozzarella or catupiry), hearts of palm (palmito), and even shrimp. The thin, fried dough provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft, flavorful interior. Some variations include sweeter fillings like guava paste with cheese (romeu e julieta), but the savory options are far more prevalent.
Fresh is Best
Pastel is best enjoyed immediately after frying when the dough is at its crispiest and the filling is still hot and flavorful. Avoid pre-made or reheated pastels if possible.
Pairing Suggestions
The classic pairing for pastel is caldo de cana (sugar cane juice), but a cold beer or a guarana soda also complements the savory flavors well.
Condiment Choices
Many vendors offer a selection of condiments to enhance the flavor of your pastel, such as hot sauce (molho de pimenta), vinegar-based sauces (molho de vinagrete), or even ketchup and mustard. Experiment to find your favorite combination.
Beware of Hot Filling
The filling inside a freshly fried pastel can be extremely hot. Take small bites to avoid burning your mouth!
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