Porção de Mini Pastel
Mini pastries.
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.
Jack Tequila
The Pastel, while beloved in Brazil, is believed to have its roots in Asian spring rolls brought by Japanese immigrants. Facing discrimination and difficulty finding work in their original trades, many Japanese immigrants turned to street food, adapting their traditional recipes to local tastes and ingredients. The Pastel emerged as a popular and affordable snack.
Mini Pastels are deeply embedded in Brazilian street food culture, commonly found in feiras (street markets) and lanchonetes (snack bars). They represent a quick, affordable, and communal eating experience.
Street Food Staple
Pastels are quintessential Brazilian street food, easily found at outdoor markets and fairs across the country. They are often enjoyed while standing or walking, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of these social spaces.
Feira Culture
The feira (street market) is a central element of Brazilian life, and Pastels are a must-have at any feira. The combination of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and hot, crispy Pastels creates a unique sensory experience.
Communal Eating
Pastels are typically shared amongst friends and family, fostering a sense of community and connection. Ordering a 'porção' (portion) of mini pastels encourages a shared eating experience.
Mini Pastels offer a diverse range of savory and sweet fillings, enclosed in a crispy, deep-fried dough.
The core flavor comes from the crispy, flaky crust, achieved by deep-frying the thin dough. The fillings contribute a variety of flavors, from savory options like ground beef (carne), cheese (queijo), heart of palm (palmito), and chicken (frango), to sweet versions filled with guava paste and cheese (Romeu e Julieta) or chocolate. The frying oil imparts a subtle, savory note to the pastry. Some variations include fillings with shrimp (camarão) or pizza-like toppings.
Best Served Hot
Pastels are best enjoyed immediately after frying, while the crust is still incredibly crispy and the filling is piping hot.
Pairing with Caldo de Cana
A classic pairing is Pastel with caldo de cana (sugar cane juice). The sweetness of the juice complements the savory flavors of the Pastel.
Ordering and Sharing
Ordering a 'porção' (portion) of mini pastels is a great way to sample different fillings and share with friends.
Beware of the Filling Temperature
The fillings can be very hot immediately after frying, so it is advisable to take small bites initially.
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