Name: Irresistible Pastelitos Carne Recipe You Must Try
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Latin
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 medium Onion, finely diced; 1 medium Carrot, diced; 1 stalk Celery Rib, chopped; 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 pound Lean Ground Beef; 1/2 cup White wine; 1 cup Tomato Sauce; 1/2 cup Pitted Spanish Olives, chopped; 1 package Frozen Puff Pastry, thawed; 2 tablespoons Honey, for brushing

Pastelitos Carne are a delightful way to enjoy savory meat pastries, embraced by golden, flaky pastry. These Latin meat pies are perfect for any occasion, whether as appetizers for a party or a quick snack. With a delicious filling of ground beef and spices, they’re a favorite in many households. Let’s get started on making these irresistible beef pastelitos!

Why You’ll Love This Pastelitos Carne

There are many reasons to adore Pastelitos Carne. First, they are packed with flavor, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or family dinners. Second, they are versatile—great as a main dish or a side. Third, their flaky crust is a joy to bite into, giving a satisfying crunch. Fourth, you can easily customize the filling, adding your favorite ingredients. Fifth, they are quick to prepare, especially if you use store-bought puff pastry. Sixth, these savory meat turnovers are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Lastly, they are a beloved traditional dish in many Latin cultures, making them a great way to share a piece of culture.

Ingredients for Pastelitos Carne

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 medium Onion, finely diced
1 medium Carrot, diced
1 stalk Celery Rib, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Cumin
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 pound Lean Ground Beef
1/2 cup White wine
1 cup Tomato Sauce
1/2 cup Pitted Spanish Olives, chopped
1 package Frozen Puff Pastry, thawed
2 tablespoons Honey, for brushing

How to Make Pastelitos Carne Step-by-Step

Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, mixing it well with the vegetables for another minute.
Step 3: Raise the heat to high, adding the lean ground beef along with salt, cumin, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the beef is browned.
Step 4: Add the white wine to the skillet, cooking for around 2 minutes until the liquid evaporates.
Step 5: Incorporate the tomato sauce and chopped Spanish olives, stirring well. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 6: Allow the picadillo to cool completely before using it.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 8: Lay the frozen puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it with a rolling pin.
Step 9: Use a biscuit cutter to create small rounds from the puff pastry.
Step 10: Place a heaping tablespoon of the picadillo filling at the center of half the pastry rounds.
Step 11: Wet the edge of the pastry round with a bit of water, cover with another pastry round, and use a fork to press the edges together.
Step 12: Arrange the pastelitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut a small slit on the top of each.
Step 13: Bake the pastelitos de carne for 10 minutes, then rotate and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
Step 14: Brush the tops lightly with honey while still warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pastelitos Carne

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the filling is completely cool before assembling to prevent sogginess.
Use a fork to seal the edges tightly to avoid any leakage during baking.
For a golden finish, brush with an egg wash instead of honey.
Consider adding spices like paprika or chili for an extra kick!

Best Ways to Serve Pastelitos Carne

These savory meat turnovers are best served fresh out of the oven. Pair them with a simple salad or a spicy dipping sauce for an exciting touch. You can also serve them alongside rice and beans for a hearty meal.

Irresistible Pastelitos Carne Recipe You Must Try - Pastelitos Carne - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Pastelitos Carne

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pastelitos Carne

What are carne pastelitos?

Carne pastelitos are traditional Latin meat pies filled with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and spices, all encased in flaky pastry.

Can I make Pastelitos Carne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and pastry in advance, refrigerate them separately, and assemble and bake them when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pastelitos Carne?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the filling is cooled, seal edges tightly, and do not overcrowd the baking sheet to allow even cooking.

Variations of Pastelitos Carne You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize your pastelitos. Try incorporating different meats like chicken or pork, or make them vegetarian by using mushrooms and spinach. You can also explore unique fillings like cheese or different spices for added flavor. Each variation opens up new dimensions of taste while still celebrating the essence of traditional pastelitos carne.

For more delicious recipes, check out this link and here. You can also learn about cooking techniques that will enhance your culinary skills.