Brazilian Beef Pastel

🇧🇷 Brazilian Beef Pastel

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside — few things compare to the first bite of a freshly fried Brazilian Beef Pastel. With its golden crust and savory, aromatic filling, this iconic street food is a beloved staple across Brazil, from bustling markets to family kitchens.

Pronounced pah-STEH-oo, pastel is pure comfort wrapped in a delicate, crunchy shell. This homemade version captures that authentic flavor with an easy dough, a flavorful beef filling infused with herbs, and the choice to either fry or bake to perfection.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these pastéis are bound to become a go-to favorite.

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🧂 Ingredients

For the Dough

Ingredient	Amount
All-purpose flour	600 g
Salt	1 teaspoon
Vegetable oil	50 ml
Boiling water	350 ml

For the Beef Filling

Ingredient	Amount
Ground beef (topside or chuck)	500 g
Onions, finely chopped	2 medium
Tomato sauce (optional)	1 tablespoon
Ripe tomato, diced	1
Red bell pepper, chopped	½
Green bell pepper, chopped	½
Salt	1 teaspoon (or to taste)
Vegetable oil	50 ml
Paprika (sweet or hot)	To taste
Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, or chives)	To taste

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the vegetable oil, then gradually pour in the boiling water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
Once cool enough to touch, knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover with a clean cloth and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling
Warm the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the onions and sauté until lightly golden. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned.
Add the diced tomato, peppers, and tomato sauce (if using).
Season with salt, paprika, and fresh herbs.
Cook until well combined and slightly moist.
Allow the mixture to cool before filling the dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastéis
On a floured surface, roll out the dough thinly.
Cut into rectangles or circles.
Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each piece.
Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, pressing the edges with a fork or your fingers to seal.

Step 4: Frying Method
Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F).
Fry the pastéis for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Baking Method (Optional)
For a lighter alternative, brush each pastel with oil or an egg wash.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.