Vegetarian Pastel (Brazilian Savory Pastry)

Savor the delightful flavors of Brazil with this Vegetarian Pastel, a crispy and golden fried pastry filled with a medley of vibrant, fresh vegetables like zucchini, red bell peppers, and carrots. This plant-based take on the classic Brazilian street food showcases a flaky, homemade dough that's both easy to prepare and perfectly complements the savory filling seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and fresh parsley. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party finger food, these vegetarian pastels are irresistibly satisfying and a sure crowd-pleaser. With just 30 minutes of preparation and a crisp fry, you'll have a taste of Brazil right at home. Whether served warm or enjoyed on the go, this recipe guarantees a flavorful experience with every bite!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup water
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 0.5 cup frozen corn
• 0.5 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups oil for frying

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil, salt, and baking powder to form a smooth dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, then cover it and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2

While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the chopped red bell pepper, diced zucchini, and grated carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 4

Add the frozen corn and peas to the vegetable mixture and stir well. Season the mixture with soy sauce, fresh parsley, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 5

Divide the rested dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll out each ball into a thin circle or oval shape using a rolling pin on a floured surface.

Step 6

Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling on one side of each rolled-out dough piece, leaving a border for sealing. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, and press the edges with a fork to seal the pastries.

Step 7

Heat 2 cups of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pastries and fry them in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 8

Remove the fried pastels using a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 9

Serve the vegetarian pastels warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1602.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5826.6

Total Fat 546.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 78.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 27.9g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2307.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 246.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 22.6g	0%
Total Sugars 24.5g
Protein 39.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 294.8mg	0%
Iron 18.4mg	0%
Potassium 2242.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value 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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 81.1%

Protein: 2.6%

Carbs: 16.3%