**Experience the Delectable Delight of Pasteles: A Journey Through Flavorful Puerto Rican Cuisine**
Embark on a culinary adventure to the vibrant island of Puerto Rico and discover the tantalizing flavors of Pasteles, a traditional dish that embodies the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine. These delectable parcels of goodness, also known as pasteles de masa, are meticulously handcrafted with a savory filling wrapped in a tender dough, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will captivate your taste buds. Join us on a culinary voyage as we unveil the secrets behind this beloved dish, exploring variations and providing step-by-step recipes that will guide you towards creating your own perfect Pasteles.
**Savory Meat, Luscious Vegetables, and Aromatic Spices: A Symphony of Flavors**
The heart of a Pastel lies in its succulent filling, which can vary depending on personal preferences and regional traditions. Savory meats like pork, beef, or chicken are often combined with a medley of vibrant vegetables, including sweet potatoes, plantains, and peppers. A symphony of aromatic spices, such as sofrito, culantro, and adobo, is artfully blended to create a fragrant and flavorful filling that bursts with every bite.
**A Tender Embrace: The Art of Crafting the Pastel Dough**
The outer layer of a Pastel is just as crucial as its filling. A delicate dough, made from a combination of masa harina (cornmeal), broth, and lard, is skillfully kneaded and rolled out, forming a pliable and tender casing that envelops the savory filling. The dough's texture is essential, as it contributes to the overall balance and harmony of flavors within the Pastel.
**Variations that Celebrate Diversity: A Culinary Tapestry of Pasteles**
The world of Pasteles is as diverse as the island of Puerto Rico itself. Different regions and families have their own unique variations, each adding a distinct touch to this beloved dish. From the classic Pastel de Puerco (Pork Pastel) to the vegetarian Pastel de Vegetales (Vegetable Pastel) and the seafood-infused Pastel de Mariscos (Seafood Pastel), the culinary possibilities are endless.
**Unveiling the Secrets: Step-by-Step Recipes for Perfect Pasteles**
To guide you on your Pastel-making journey, we present a collection of carefully curated recipes that will empower you to recreate these culinary gems in your own kitchen. With detailed instructions, helpful tips, and insightful cultural context, these recipes will lead you towards crafting Pasteles that are not only delicious but also embody the spirit of Puerto Rican cuisine.
**Embark on a Flavorful Adventure: A Culinary Journey Awaits**
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Puerto Rico. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary exploration, the world of Pasteles offers something for everyone. Join us as we delve into the secrets of this beloved dish, creating memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.
PASTELES DE QUESO RECIPE BY TASTY
Here's what you need: all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, granulated sugar, corn oil, large eggs, warm milk, shredded mozzarella cheese, water, canola oil, powdered sugar, api
Provided by Betsy Carter
Categories Desserts
Yield 25 pasteles
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar and whisk to combine.
- Add the corn oil and whisk until well combined.
- In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, lightly beat together the eggs. Add the milk.
- Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough begins to come together in a ball.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth.
- Place the dough in a floured bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 45 minutes, or until dough has nearly doubled in size.
- Roll the dough into about 25 smaller balls, or fewer if you prefer larger pasteles. Transfer to a baking sheet and cover with a kitchen towel so the dough balls don't dry out as you roll them out.
- Working 1 at a time, roll each dough ball out into ⅛-inch (3 mm) thick ovals. Use an inverted bowl to cut out circles about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) in diameter. Discard the dough scraps.
- Add about a tablespoon of Oaxaca cheese to the center of each circle. Lightly wet the edge of the dough with water, then fold in half and seal using the repulgue technique or an empanada mold cutter.
- Fill a large pot with canola oil and heat to 360°F (182°C).
- Add several pasteles at a time to the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Dust the hot pasteles with powdered sugar. Serve with api, if desired.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 159 calories, Carbohydrate 22 grams, Fat 4 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 6 grams, Sugar 1 gram
PASTELES RECIPE BY TASTY
Similar to the tamale, pasteles are traditional Latin American and Caribbean masa-based pockets wrapped in banana leaves. They can take many forms depending on who is making them-everyone has their own tried and true family recipe.
Provided by Gwenaelle Le Cochennec
Categories Sides
Time 2h40m
Yield 16 pasteles
Number Of Ingredients 28
Steps:
- Make the bell pepper purée: Add the bell peppers, garlic, onion, and cilantro to a food processor or blender and purée until well combined. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use. Wipe out the food processor.
- Make the masa: Add the green plantains to the food processor and process until finely chopped. Add the kabocha squash, yautía blanca, and ripe plantains and process until completely smooth; this may take 5-10 minutes. Add the milk, salt, and butter and continue blending until well incorporated. Transfer to a bowl.
- Make the annatto oil: In a small saucepan, combine the achiote powder and olive oil. Warm over medium-low heat until the oil begins to shimmer slightly, whisking to ensure the achiote doesn't burn. Remove the pot from the heat and let stand for 1 minute.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of the annatto oil to the masa mixture and stir to incorporate. Cover the masa with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use. Set the remaining annatto oil aside.
- Make the spiced ground beef: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the ginger, chiles, and red onion. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the coriander and za'atar. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spices are toasted and fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium and add the ground beef. Season with the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt and the pepper. Cook the beef is until browned and cooked through, 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the reserved bell pepper purée and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Simmer for 15 minutes until the flavors have melded, adding chicken stock as needed if the mixture gets too dry--some bubbling liquid should always be visible.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to scoop the ground beef into a bowl, then cover and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use. Discard any excess liquid.
- Assemble the pasteles: Gather the banana leaves, annatto oil, masa, ground beef mixture, kitchen twine, offset spatula, and pastry brush, and set near a large, clean work surface.
- Heat a griddle or flat grill pan over medium-high heat. Working gently and carefully, lightly press one of the banana leaves onto the griddle with a kitchen towel. The leaf should quickly change color in the area where it meets the griddle. Rotate and repeat until the entire leaf has changed color and is hot and pliable.
- Place the banana leaf in the center of the work surface with the veins running horizontally. Brush the leaf with annatto oil. Scoop 4 tablespoons of masa onto the bottom center of the leaf. Scoop 3 tablespoons of ground beef into the center of the masa. Fold the bottom of the banana leaf up and over the filling to meet the top of the leaf, then fold the top of the leaf back over the center. Gently fold in the sides. Tie with twine to secure. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to form 16 pasteles total.
- Bring 2 large pots filled halfway with water to a boil, then salt generously.
- Lay the pasteles in the pots, being careful not to overcrowd, and cook for 30 minutes.
- Let the pasteles rest for 5-10 minutes before unwrapping. The pasteles can also be wrapped and frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 570 calories, Carbohydrate 56 grams, Fat 32 grams, Fiber 4 grams, Protein 17 grams, Sugar 21 grams
PASTELES
In Puerto Rico, these wrapped goodies are made in large quantities during the holidays, often with several family members sharing in the tasks of preparation. A food processor or blender makes the job easier. There are different versions. This one has a lot of ingredients but it is still very good. You can also stuff them with chicken instead of pork. (Time to make depends on how much help you can get!)
Provided by l0ve2c00k
Categories Puerto Rican
Time 5h10m
Yield 16-20 Pasteles
Number Of Ingredients 23
Steps:
- add oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the annatto seeds and heat for one minute to release their orange color.
- Remove from heat and drain the oil into a separate container.
- Discard the seeds and return half of the oil to the skillet.
- Return the oil to medium-high heat and add the pork and bacon. Brown for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic, onion, bell pepper, small green peppers, tomatoes, culantro, and oregano, and sauté for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chickpeas and olives (with their respective liquids), capers, and raisins.
- Cover and simmer over low-medium heat for 40 minutes. When done, uncover and allow to cool.
- Drain the broth into a separate container and set aside.
- Make the dough by peeling the plantains and the bananas, first cutting off the ends and running a knife tip lengthwise along one or more of the ridges.
- Insert and run a thumb just beneath the cut peel to lift and remove it. Peel the yautia.
- Place plantains, bananas, and yautia into a large bowl of salted cold water to prevent discoloring.
- You can grate them using the fine side of a hand grater, or instead, cut into 1/2- to 1-inch pieces for the processor.
- Fill 1/3 to 1/2 of the food processor or blender container with the cut vegetables, slowly adding broth to form a smooth, porridgelike mash. It should not be runny.
- Transfer the purée to a large bowl. If you run out of broth, substitute water as needed.
- Stir in the salt and the remaining annatto oil.
- Place a banana leaf on a sheet of parchment paper.
- Drop a scant 1/2 cup of the dough onto the center of the leaf and spread it several inches all around with the back of a spoon.
- Drop 2 tablespoons of the filling a bit off center. Fold each long side and then the ends toward the center.
- Slide the encased leaf toward the long edge of the parchment and wrap again.
- Fold end flaps over.
- Tie two pasteles together, with folded edges facing each other.
- To cook, put a batch (4 to 6 tied bundles) into a large kettle of salted boiling water and cook semicovered at medium-high heat for 30 minutes.
- Turn the bundles over and cook 40 minutes more.
- When done, drain them well, remove the strings and wrappings, and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 251.8, Fat 9.8, SaturatedFat 3.5, Cholesterol 31.2, Sodium 629.1, Carbohydrate 31.3, Fiber 3.1, Sugar 15.7, Protein 11.8
PASTELES
Most of the components for pasteles, a traditional Puerto Rican holiday dish, can be made a day or two in advance, then brought to room temperature for assembly. You can prepare the masa ahead, and freeze it for up to several months. Pasteles can also be cooked right away, refrigerated for a few days or frozen in zip-top containers for several months. Some use only green bananas or green plantains - which are unripe, firm and very green - for the masa; some add potatoes or pumpkin; some add yuca, also known as cassava, and others use only yuca. If you can't find one or more ingredients, use what you can find. Lucy Ramirez adds pork gravy to the masa (other cooks may add milk or oil) and makes sure there's a little pork in every bite of the pastel. Traditionally, pasteles were fully wrapped in banana or plantain leaves before being wrapped in parchment paper or foil. Today, many cooks use a piece or strip of banana leaf to give each pastel the nutty flavor of the leaf. Serve them with a side of hot sauce or ketchup. Click here to learn how to assemble the pasteles.
Provided by Rachel Wharton
Categories project, main course
Time 4h
Yield 36 pasteles, or 18 pairs
Number Of Ingredients 23
Steps:
- Make the sofrito: Place the chiles, bell peppers, onions, culantro, cilantro, garlic and pimentos in a blender and process until the mixture is fully puréed, scraping the sides of the blender as needed. Refrigerate until ready to use: This can be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.
- Make the masa: Peel the bananas and plantains: Prepare a mixing bowl or large pot with water. Cut off the ends of the fruits, then use a knife to score and peel off the skin. Place the bananas in the bowl of water as you go so they don't discolor. (The skins can stain, so be careful as you handle them, or wear plastic gloves.) Remove the skin of the yautia with a vegetable peeler and add it to the water.
- Remove the bananas, plantains and yautia from the water and process until smooth: First, in a food processor fitted with the grating disc, shred each ingredient separately, dumping them into a large bowl as you go. Mix the ingredients together in the bowl, switch to the blade fitting, and process the mixture in batches until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the work bowl as necessary. The end result should look soft and fluffy like a purée. (Alternatively, you can grate everything by hand on the smallest holes of a box grater.) Transfer the masa to a large mixing bowl. At this point it can be refrigerated for a few hours, covered, while you prepare the pork, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prepare the pork: Cut the pork into small, rough chunks about 1 inch long by 1/2 inch wide, trimming away excess tough fat as you go. Place the pork pieces in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Stir in the reserved sofrito, making sure all of the pork cubes are coated. Let the pork cook, stirring almost constantly, until it starts to release some liquid, about 5 minutes. Add the olive oil and let it cook for a minute or two, then stir in the seasoning packet.
- Let the pork cook for another minute or two, then stir in the olives and their brine, the tomato sauce and the chicken stock or water, and a pinch of salt. Let the liquid come up to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat. Let the pork cook at a simmer for 30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through, stirring occasionally. There should be plenty of liquid in the pot at all times, so the mixture looks like soup, not stew. If it looks dry, add stock or water as needed.
- While the pork cooks, make the annatto oil: In a small saucepan, heat the oil and the annatto seeds over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to bubble. Lower the heat slightly and let the seeds cook in the oil until the liquid turns a bright pink-red. Turn off the heat and let the seeds sit in the oil until it cools. Strain the oil through a sieve or slotted spoon into a small mixing bowl, discarding the seeds. Set the bowl aside. (If the liquid does not immediately begin to turn red, your annatto seeds are too old.)
- When the pork is done, taste for seasoning, and add more salt if desired, then turn off the heat. Take 2 to 3 cups of the liquid from the pork and stir it into the masa until it is the consistency of thick oatmeal, soft but spreadable. You will still need about 2 to 3 cups of liquid to make the pasteles, so if your pot looks dry at this point, stir in a little water or stock so that you still have plenty of liquid, and taste for seasoning again.
- On a large, clean work surface, set up your pastel-making station: You will need the banana leaves, parchment paper, string, the annatto oil, the pork and its liquid, and the masa. To make each pastel, start with a piece of parchment paper in front of you, one long side closest to you. Use a soup spoon or a pastry brush to paint a very thin smear of annatto oil on the parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch border on the top and bottom and 4 inches on the sides. (This does not have to be perfect: It's just to keep the banana leaf from sticking.) Lay the banana leaf down on top of the oil, long side closest to you. Paint the banana leaf very lightly with the annatto oil. Spread 1/2 cup of masa on top of the banana leaf about 3/4 to 1/2 inch thick. The masa does not have to be a perfect shape: It can overlap the leaf in places and does not have to cover it completely.
- Spoon a scant 1/4 cup of pork pieces along the length of the masa in a straight line. Your goal is really a line of pork chunks along the center of the masa, so that each bite of pastel has a bite of pork. Add 2 olives to the masa, one near each end. Use a spoon to drizzle on a little more liquid as needed so that most of the masa is covered by a very thin layer of liquid. Don't overdo it: About a tablespoon or so of liquid per pastel is about right.
- To form the pastel, fold the parchment paper in half, from the bottom up, over the masa and filling so the 2 long edges meet. Fold those edges down to meet the edge of the pastel farthest from you. Press the paper down and crease the top edge. Fold the parchment in half again lengthwise from the top down, so it covers the pastel. You now have a long thin pastel wrapped in a tube of parchment, with multiple layers of paper on top. (This needn't be exact, as long as the paper forms a neat little package.)
- Working carefully, use the side of your hand to press and slide the masa on either side of the package into the center to give it a neat edge. Fold in 1 inch of the paper on the left and right sides to create small hems. Then fold both sides over the pastel. (If you have a few leaks, it's O.K.)
- Set this pastel aside, flaps facing downward, while you make its partner: Repeat the process above to make a second pastel.
- When you have 2 pasteles, stack them together so they line up, flaps facing inward. Use 1 piece of string to tie the pasteles together the same way you would a package, looping the string once across the long way and at least once across the short way. Make sure the string is tight and the pasteles are tightly tied together. Repeat this process with the remaining pairs of pasteles. At this point they can be frozen for several months, refrigerated for a day or two, or cooked and eaten immediately.
- To cook them, bring a large pot (or a few pots) of salted water to a boil and add the pasteles, either fresh or frozen, in a single layer. Let cook for 1 hour, or an hour and 10 minutes or so if they are frozen. Repeat with the remaining pasteles, then unwrap and serve right away.
Tips:
- Mise en Place: Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. This will help you stay organized and avoid scrambling.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients always taste better, so try to use them whenever possible.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can make your pasteles tough, so be careful not to overdo it.
- Cook the Pasteles Slowly: Pasteles are best cooked slowly over low heat. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from drying out.
- Serve the Pasteles Hot: Pasteles are best served hot, so make sure to eat them as soon as they are cooked.
Conclusion:
Pasteles are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are relatively easy to make, and with a little practice, you can master the art of making perfect pasteles. So next time you're looking for a new and exciting dish to try, give pasteles a try. You won't be disappointed!
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