Step 1 of 6
Pastel
Mix the flour and salt in a bowl, add the warm water, oil and vinegar and bring it together. Knead for 5 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic, then wrap and rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Pastel take?
1 hr 55 min all in — 1 hr prep, 25 min cook, 30 min rest. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 12 pieces. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Medium.
How spicy is it?
No chilli.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Wheat, Milk, Eggs. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Weeknight budget — about $8–16 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Mixing bowl, Frying pan, Rolling pin, Chef's knife, Dutch oven, Spider or strainer.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1½ tsp.
How much vinegar?
1 tbsp (or cachaça) of Vinegar.
What can I use instead?
Cachaça or vinegar → Vodka. Any neutral spirit gives the same crisp, blistered crust. Mozzarella → Any firm, low-moisture melting cheese. Fresh mozzarella is too wet and makes the pastel soggy.
What should I watch for?
Hot cheese can burst through a weak seal. Press the edges well and keep your face back from the pot.
Any tips from this recipe?
Brazilian shops sell ready-made massa de pastel in long rolled strips, which is what many stalls use too. Leave a little air inside when you seal. It helps the pastel puff into a pillow.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.