Gourmet Pastelillos Meat Pies

Name: Gourmet Pastelillos Meat Pies
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, diced); 1 cup ice water (as needed); 500 g ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/4 cup tomato sauce; 1/4 cup green olives (sliced); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

80 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savory and delicious gourmet pastelillos meat pies, perfect for any occasion.

Prep

40 min

Cook

25 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Gourmet pastelillos, also known as meat pies, are a delightful fusion of flavour and texture, enjoyed across many cultures but especially loved in Puerto Rican cuisine. These hand-held pies are filled with a savoury meat mixture, encased in a crispy, golden pastry shell. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a comforting meal at home, these pastelillos are sure to impress with their gourmet twist. What makes this version special is the use of high-quality ingredients and a few extra spices to elevate the traditional recipe to a gourmet level. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to guide you through each step with confidence, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add diced butter and combine with your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and mix until the dough forms. Chill for 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Don't overwork the dough to keep it tender.

Make the filling

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned.

Pro tip: Drain excess fat for a less greasy filling.

Add additional ingredients

Stir in tomato sauce and olives, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning to taste.

Roll out the dough

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles.

Pro tip: Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass.

Fill the pies

Place a spoonful of filling on each circle. Brush edges with egg wash, fold over, and seal with a fork.

Pro tip: Don't overfill to prevent pies from bursting.

Bake the pastelillos

Place pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pro tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.

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Tips & Tricks

Chill the dough before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Use a fork to seal the edges for an authentic look.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using a different brand of spices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are gourmet pastelillos meat pies?

Gourmet pastelillos are hand-held meat pies with a savoury filling and a flaky pastry shell, often found in Puerto Rican cuisine.

How many calories are in a gourmet pastelillo?

A gourmet pastelillo contains approximately 320 calories.

Can I freeze pastelillos meat pies?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What sauces pair well with pastelillos?

Chimichurri and spicy aioli are excellent dipping sauces for pastelillos.

How do I prevent pastelillos from bursting?

Avoid overfilling and ensure the edges are well sealed with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these gourmet pastelillos meat pies warm with your favourite dipping sauces, such as chimichurri or a spicy aioli, to enhance their flavours. They pair well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. If you're planning ahead, you can prepare the meat filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. The pies can also be frozen for up to a month; simply reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

14g

Protein

18g

Fat

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