Queijo Minas Pastel
Queijo Minas Pastel is a popular Brazilian treat known for its delicious, crisp pastry filled with creamy cheese from the Minas region. This snack is a beloved staple at street fairs and gatherings in Brazil, renowned for its savory taste and satisfying texture. Queijo Minas is a type of cheese that hails from the Minas Gerais state, known for its rich dairy production history that dates back to the colonial era. This cheese brings a unique flavor to the pastel and is cherished across the country.
Ingredients
- Pastel dough
- Queijo Minas cheese
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Flour for dusting
- Water to seal the dough
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Preparation
Making the Pastel Dough
The pastel dough can be homemade or store-bought. To create your own, you'll need: 500 grams of flour, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and approximately 250 ml of water.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- Add the vegetable oil and slowly incorporate the water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Cheese Filling
The main ingredient for the filling is the Queijo Minas cheese. Grate 300 grams of Queijo Minas cheese and season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Assembling Queijo Minas Pastel
- Roll out the rested pastel dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 2 mm.
- Cut the dough into rectangles about 10 cm by 15 cm in size.
- Place a small amount of the cheese filling on one side of each rectangle, leaving a border for sealing.
- Brush the border with water and fold the dough over the filling.
- Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the pastel.
Cooking Process
Heat a good amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan to around 180°C. Carefully add the pastels to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Use a cooking timer to ensure they don't burn. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Enjoying Queijo Minas Pastel
Queijo Minas Pastel is best enjoyed hot, when the cheese inside is melting and gooey. Pair with a cup of coffee or a cold guaraná soda for a genuine Brazilian experience. They are perfect for parties, appetizers, or as a simple indulgent snack.