Pastel
Pastel is one of the snack options offered at ROOD Bike Club.
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.
ROOD Bike Club
Pastel's origins are a bit murky, but it's widely believed that the dish was brought to Brazil by Asian immigrants, particularly the Japanese, who adapted their fried spring roll recipes to local ingredients and tastes. This occurred primarily during and after World War II when Japanese immigration to Brazil increased significantly. They initially sold these pastries at open-air markets, keeping their origins secret to avoid prejudice during a time of anti-Japanese sentiment. Over time, the dish evolved into the uniquely Brazilian pastel we know today.
Pastel holds a prominent place in Brazilian street food culture, often enjoyed as a quick and affordable meal or snack.
Street Food Staple
Pastel is ubiquitous in Brazilian street markets (feiras) and fairs. You'll find vendors selling them alongside other popular snacks and drinks.
A Family Affair
Making pastel can be a family activity, with different members contributing to the preparation of the dough, fillings, and frying process.
Perfect Pairing
Pastel is often enjoyed with caldo de cana (sugar cane juice) or a cold beer, complementing the savory flavors of the pastry.
Pastel offers a savory and satisfying flavor profile, with a crispy exterior that gives way to a variety of fillings.
The crispy shell, achieved through deep-frying, provides a textural contrast to the soft, flavorful fillings. The most common fillings include ground beef (carne), cheese (queijo), heart of palm (palmito), chicken (frango), and pizza (ham, cheese, tomato and oregano). Other fillings include shrimp, cod fish and pepperoni. Seasonings vary, but often include garlic, onions, parsley, and sometimes a touch of chili pepper. The frying process imparts a rich, savory flavor and a satisfying crunch. The flavor depends heavily on the filling, ranging from cheesy and salty to meaty and savory.
Go to the Feira
For an authentic experience, visit a local street market (feira). These markets are the best place to find freshly made, high-quality pastel.
Eat it Fresh
Pastel is best enjoyed hot and fresh, immediately after frying, to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor.
Experiment with Fillings
Don't be afraid to try different fillings. While carne and queijo are classic choices, explore other options like palmito, frango, and even sweet fillings like banana and chocolate.
Add Hot Sauce
A dash of hot sauce (molho de pimenta) can add an extra kick and complement the savory flavors of the pastel. Many vendors offer homemade hot sauces with varying levels of heat.
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