World Flavors Cookbook

Pastel de Carne

Thin, crispy deep-fried pastry envelopes filled with seasoned ground beef, a staple of Brazilian farmers' markets.

Cuisine: Brazil

Ingredients

• 500g ready-made pastel dough (or thin wonton wrappers)
• 300g ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
• 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
• Salt, pepper, and cumin to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef with onion. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped egg and olives. Let cool.
3. Cut the dough into rectangles. Place a spoonful of filling on one side.
4. Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
5. Fry in very hot oil for about 1-2 minutes per side until bubbly and golden.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.