Recipes

Pastelillos

Posted on by Oscar
Pastelillos
Pastelillos

Pastelillos

Pastelillos are delightful Puerto Rican turnovers with a flaky, homemade dough that envelops a savory filling. The dough is made by combining flour, cold butter, and water, creating a perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness. The classic picadillo filling features ground meat (such as beef or pork) combined with a medley of finely chopped onions, green and red bell peppers, garlic, tomato sauce, green olives, and optional capers. This flavorful mixture is spiced with ground cumin, salt, and pepper. To assemble, the dough is rolled out into thin rounds, filled with the savory picadillo mixture, and folded over to create a half-moon shape. The edges are sealed with a decorative crimp, and the pastelillos are deep-fried until they achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior. These delectable turnovers can be served hot and make for a mouthwatering snack or appetizer. The combination of flaky pastry and a savory, seasoned filling offers a burst of Puerto Rican flavors that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Pastelillos are versatile, and you can explore various filling options to suit your preferences, making them a beloved and customizable treat in Puerto Rican cuisine. Enjoy the authentic taste of Puerto Rico with homemade pastelillos! Here's a basic recipe for making pastelillos from scratch.
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Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
  • 1/2 cup cold water

For the Filling (Picadillo, a common filling):

  • 1/2 pound ground beef or ground pork
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup green olives chopped
  • 2 tablespoons capers optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

Instructions:

  • For the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. You may not need to use all of the water. The dough should hold together but not be overly wet.
  • Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

For the Filling (Picadillo):

  • In a skillet, cook the ground beef or pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  • Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, green olives, capers (if using), ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  • Assembling and Frying:
  • Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) to keep pastelillos warm while frying batches.
  • Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out rounds using a round cutter or a glass.
  • Place a spoonful of the picadillo filling in the center of each dough round.
  • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork or your fingers.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry the pastelillos in batches until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Transfer the fried pastelillos to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil, then transfer them to a baking sheet in the preheated oven to keep them warm while you fry the remaining batches.
  • Serve the pastelillos hot as a delicious Puerto Rican snack or appetizer.

Notes

When it comes to making pastelillos, one of the great things is that you have the creative freedom to customize the filling to your liking. While the classic picadillo filling is a favorite, you can explore a world of flavors and ingredients to create your unique pastelillo variations. Here are some popular options to inspire your culinary experiments:
Cheese-filled Pastelillos: Add a creamy and gooey twist to your pastelillos by incorporating cheese. Common choices include shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. The cheese melts beautifully within the flaky crust, creating a satisfying and indulgent treat.
Chicken Pastelillos: If you prefer poultry over beef or pork, consider using seasoned shredded chicken as your filling. You can cook the chicken with spices, onions, and bell peppers for a flavorful twist. Add some diced tomatoes or even a touch of salsa for an extra kick.
Seafood Pastelillos: Seafood lovers can delight in pastelillos filled with a variety of ocean treasures. Some popular options include shrimp, crab, or a combination of seafood, all sautéed with garlic, onions, and aromatic spices. A splash of lime or lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
Vegetarian or Vegan Pastelillos: For those who prefer plant-based options, create a vegetarian or vegan pastelillo by using ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, black beans, sweet potatoes, or tofu. Season them generously with herbs and spices for a tasty, meat-free alternative.
Fruit-filled Dessert Pastelillos: Pastelillos aren't limited to savory fillings. You can also explore sweet variations filled with fruits like guava, pineapple, or apple cinnamon. Sweeten the filling with sugar, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful dessert.
Customized Salsas or Dips: Enhance your pastelillos' flavors by serving them with various salsas or dips. A classic tomato-based salsa, a zesty chimichurri sauce, or a creamy avocado dip can complement your pastelillos perfectly.
Remember that the key to successful customization is balance. Experiment with different ingredients, flavors, and textures, but always keep the harmony of flavors in mind. Whether you're preparing pastelillos for a snack, appetizer, or main course, your homemade creations will surely be a hit. So, feel free to get creative and enjoy the delicious world of pastelillo variations!
Oscar