Caribbean Delight Pastechi

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water
• Filling options: Filling options:
• Spiced ground beef Spiced ground beef
• Shredded chicken Shredded chicken
• Cheese Cheese
• Spinach Spinach

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use your fingertips to rub it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the ice water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until smooth.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of your desired filling onto one half of the dough circle.
7. 7.
   Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
8. 8.
   Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
9. 9.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. 10.
    Place the pastechi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. 11.
    Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastechi turn golden brown.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky crust.
• Ground beef — Brown the ground beef before adding the spices to enhance the flavor.
• Cheese — Use a flavorful cheese like Gouda or Cheddar for a delicious filling.
• Spinach — Sauté the spinach with garlic and onion for added flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the filling.
• Experiment with different fillings like shrimp, lobster, or even vegetarian options like black beans and plantains.
• Serve the pastechi with a side of tangy mango salsa or a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can brush the pastechi with egg wash before baking for a glossy finish.
• These pastechi can be made ahead of time and frozen. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the warm pastechi as an appetizer at a Caribbean-themed party or as a delightful snack for a cozy evening at home. They pair perfectly with a refreshing tropical fruit punch or a chilled glass of coconut water.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden pastechi on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve them alongside small bowls of dipping sauces for an inviting and appetizing presentation.