Crispy on the outside, savory and juicy on the inside — there’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly made Brazilian Beef Pastel. With its golden shell and aromatic beef filling, this beloved street food is a staple at fairs, family gatherings, and cozy kitchens across Brazil. Pronounced pah-STEH-oo, pastel is comfort food wrapped in crunch.

This homemade version brings the authentic flavor straight to your table, with a simple dough, a rich, herb-infused beef filling, and the flexibility to fry or bake depending on your mood.

Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something satisfying, this pastel recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Dough

• 600 g All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 50 ml Vegetable oil
• 350 ml Boiling water

Beef Filling

• 500 g Ground beef (topside or chuck)
• 2 medium Onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Tomato sauce (optional)
• 1 Ripe tomato, diced
• ½ Red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ Green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
• 50 ml Vegetable oil
• Paprika (sweet or hot), to taste
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, chives), to taste

How to Make It

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
Add vegetable oil and stir.
Gradually pour in boiling water, mixing until a dough forms.
Once cool enough to handle, knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onions until golden, then add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in tomato, peppers, and tomato sauce (if using).
Season with salt, paprika, and herbs.
Cook until the mixture is flavorful and slightly moist.
Let cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastels
Roll out dough thinly on a floured surface.
Cut into rectangles or circles.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center.
Fold over and seal edges with a fork or your fingers.

Step 4: Fry
Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F).
Fry pastels until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Bake (Optional)
For a lighter version, brush with oil or egg wash.
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25 minutes, or until golden.