How to Make Crispy Chicken and Cheese Pastel from Scratch – Easy Homemade Brazilian Street Food Recipe

Crispy Chicken and Cheese Pastel: Complete and Professional Recipe

Learn how to make crispy chicken and cheese pastel with this complete, step-by-step recipe. Perfectly golden dough with a flavorful, melty filling, ideal for snacks or selling.

Few dishes are as beloved and versatile as pastel. Found in street markets, snack bars, and traditional kitchens, it stands out for the perfect contrast between a golden, crispy crust and a juicy, well-seasoned filling. In this recipe, you will learn how to prepare a pastel filled with shredded chicken and melted cheese, with a professional texture and remarkable flavor.

The preparation is simple, but the details make all the difference. From choosing the ingredients to achieving the right frying point, each step contributes to an irresistible final result. This complete guide was created to ensure a pastel with quality worthy of sale or to impress at the table.

Ingredients

For the dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon cachaça (optional, helps with crispiness)

• Approximately 1/2 cup warm water

For the filling

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

• 2 tablespoons oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 onion, chopped

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For frying

• Oil for deep frying

Required Utensils

• Large bowl

• Rolling pin or bottle

• Deep frying pan or pot

• Slotted spoon

• Paper towels

• Fork for sealing the pastels

Preparation Method

Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning. Then add the oil and cachaça. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands until a homogeneous dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a smooth surface and knead for about 10 minutes. This process is essential to develop elasticity and ensure a firm yet pliable texture.

Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out the dough later.

Preparing the filling

Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the onion and cook until lightly golden.

Add the shredded chicken and mix well. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Then add the tomato sauce and cook for a few minutes until the filling is moist but not overly wet.

Turn off the heat and let it cool completely before assembling the pastels. Mix the cheese only at the time of assembly to maintain the ideal texture.

Rolling out the dough

Divide the dough into small portions. Using a rolling pin, roll out each portion until very thin, almost transparent. The thinner the dough, the crispier the pastel will be.

Cut into rectangles or circles, depending on your preferred shape.

Assembly

Place a portion of the filling on one half of the dough. Add the cheese on top of the chicken.

Fold the dough over to form an envelope shape. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal completely and prevent the filling from leaking during frying.

Frying

Heat the oil over high heat. To check if it is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should rise quickly to the surface.

Fry the pastels in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Turn them when one side is golden.

Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

How to Ensure a Perfect Pastel

Temperature control

Oil that is too cold makes the pastel greasy, while oil that is too hot can burn the dough before the filling heats through. Balance is essential.

Dough thickness

Rolling the dough very thin is the secret to crispiness. Thick dough results in heavier pastels.

Proper sealing

Pressing the edges well prevents the filling from leaking and ruining the final result.

Filling Variations

Ground beef

Cook ground beef with garlic, onion, tomato, and seasonings until well browned and dry.

Cheese only

Use mozzarella alone or combine with other cheeses for a stronger flavor.

Sausage

Sauté sliced sausage with onion and finish with cheese.

Hearts of palm

Prepare a creamy filling with chopped hearts of palm and seasonings.

Sweet

Fill with banana and sugar, chocolate, or dulce de leche for dessert versions.

Ideal Accompaniments

• Hot sauce

• Vinaigrette

• Garlic sauce

• Ketchup and mustard

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Filling too wet

Excess moisture can cause the dough to open during frying. Always keep the filling drier.

Poorly kneaded dough

A dough that is not well worked can tear easily.

Frying too many at once

This lowers the oil temperature and affects texture.

Skipping the resting time

This step makes the dough easier to roll and improves the final result.

How to Store

Before frying

The pastels can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Freezing

Freeze the raw pastels separated by parchment paper. Once frozen, store them in bags.

After frying

They are best consumed immediately but can be reheated in the oven to restore crispiness.

Presentation Tips

Serve the pastels while still hot, with the filling slightly visible. Cutting them in half enhances presentation and highlights the internal texture.

Use light-colored plates to emphasize the golden color of the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bake instead of frying?

Yes, but the result will be different, with a less crispy texture.

Do I need to use cachaça?

It is not mandatory, but it helps with the dough texture.

What is the best oil for frying?

Neutral vegetable oil is the most suitable.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, it is a practical option, but homemade dough provides better texture.

Preparing pastel is a practical and very satisfying experience. With simple ingredients and attention to detail, it is possible to achieve a crispy, flavorful result with a professional appearance.

Now that all the steps are clear, from the dough to frying, simply try different fillings and adjust according to preference.

Put it into practice and enjoy every step of this delicious recipe!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out these delicious options:

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 • Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak on French Bread au Gratin – Easy and Flavor-Packed Recipe

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Try them all and discover new delicious combinations!