Complete Baked Pastel Recipe

Baked pastel is a delight that wins palates over on any occasion. Ideal for snacks, parties, or even quick meals, this treat has the advantage of being baked, offering a healthier option than the fried version. In this article, you will find a complete, unique baked pastel recipe, key tips, delicious variations, and a detailed nutrition table.

Quality Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 7 oz butter (good quality)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or your preference)

Filling Ingredients

• 10.5 oz ground beef (good quality)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped olives
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parsley and scallions to taste

Optional Ingredients

• 3.5 oz grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 beaten egg for brushing

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the butter cut into cubes and rub with your fingertips until crumbly.
2. Adding the Liquids: Add the egg and the milk little by little, mixing until you get a smooth dough. If needed, add more milk or flour until the dough pulls away from your hands.
3. Resting the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to rest.

Preparing the Filling

1. Sautéing the Aromatics: In a pan, heat a drizzle of oil (oil or olive oil). Add the finely chopped onion and garlic and sauté until golden.
2. Cooking the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until well browned. Season with salt and pepper, and add the chopped tomato and olives.
3. Finishing the Filling: Cook a few minutes more until the ingredients are well combined. Finish with parsley and scallions to taste. If you like, add the grated mozzarella for a creamier filling.

Assembling the Pastels

1. Rolling Out the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and, on a floured surface, roll it out with a rolling pin until thin.
2. Cutting and Filling: Cut the dough into circles or rectangles of the desired size. Place a portion of filling in the center of each piece.
3. Sealing the Pastels: Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal well.
4. Final Brush: Place the pastels on a greased baking sheet and brush with beaten egg so they turn golden.

Baking

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Baking the Pastels: Bake for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Pastel

1. Cold Butter: Use very cold butter when making the dough so it turns out crispy.
2. Resting the Dough: Do not skip chilling the dough; it helps achieve a better texture.
3. Vary the Filling: Try different fillings, such as shredded chicken, hearts of palm, ham and cheese, or even sweet versions with banana and cinnamon.

Filling Variations

Chicken Filling

• 10.5 oz shredded chicken
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste

Hearts of Palm Filling

• 1 jar chopped hearts of palm
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste

Sweet Filling

• Banana and cinnamon
• Dulce de leche with shredded coconut

Nutritional Benefits

Baked pastels are a healthier option than fried ones, with less fat and fewer calories. Using quality ingredients, you can make a tasty, nutritious meal.

Prep Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 20 pastels

Nutrition Facts

Component	Amount per serving (1 pastel)
Calories	150 kcal
Carbohydrates	20 g
Protein	6 g
Fat	5 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Dietary Fiber	2 g
Sodium	200 mg
Sugars	1 g

Conclusion

Baked pastel is a delicious, practical option for any occasion. With simple ingredients and an easy method, you can surprise family and friends with this treat. Try the filling variations and enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite.

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Liked this baked pastel recipe? Share it with your friends and family! Spread the joy of this baked delight and help others discover how easy it is to make amazing baked pastels at home.

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