The pastel de feira is a classic dish in Brazilian cuisine, often found at street stalls and beach vendors. Known for its simple yet flavorful preparation, the secret lies in the dough, which uses aguardiente or white vinegar for a crispy and light texture. This recipe features a cheese filling, but you can easily customize it with other fillings like tuna, chicken, or vegetables.
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Sift the flour together with the salt in a bowl.
Make a well in the center of the flour and add the oil, aguardiente (or vinegar), and a little warm water.
Gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid, adding more water as needed, and knead until you achieve a soft dough ball. Add a little more flour if necessary.
On a floured surface, knead the dough with a rolling pin and roll it out until it is very thin.
Cut the dough into rectangles and fill each one with a small amount of grated mozzarella or small cubes of mozzarella.
Seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
Fry the pastries in plenty of hot oil over medium heat.
Once golden, remove them and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Ensure the dough is rolled out very thin to achieve the signature crispy texture.
Use a fork to seal the edges properly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
Experiment with different fillings like tuna, chicken, or vegetables for variety.
Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar or gouda, but mozzarella is recommended for its melting properties.
What can I substitute for aguardiente?
You can use white vinegar as a substitute for aguardiente to achieve the crispy texture in the dough.
Can I bake the pastel instead of frying?
While traditionally fried, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) until golden, though the texture may differ.
How do I prevent the pastels from becoming soggy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and drain the pastels on paper towels immediately after cooking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap.
