Salvadoran-style Paszteciki

Ingredients

In the original Polish paszteciki, the dough is typically made with wheat flour and the filling often includes mushrooms and sauerkraut. In this Salvadoran adaptation, we use a combination of all-purpose flour and masa harina for the dough, giving it a distinct Salvadoran touch. The filling is also modified to include traditional Salvadoran ingredients like black beans, bell peppers, and cumin, adding a burst of flavor that complements the dough perfectly. We alse have the original recipe for Paszteciki, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) masa harina 1 cup (120g) masa harina
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup (90g) cooked black beans 1/2 cup (90g) cooked black beans
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced onions 1/2 cup (75g) diced onions
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced bell peppers 1/2 cup (75g) diced bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the egg wash: For the egg wash:
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water 1 tablespoon water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 11g)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (Sugar: 2g)
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, masa harina, and salt for the dough. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water and knead until the dough comes together. Form it into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. 4.
   Stir in the cooked black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let the filling cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough, approximately 4 inches (10cm) in diameter.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
8. 8.
   Transfer the filled paszteciki to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash mixture.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the paszteciki are golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Masa harina — Masa harina is a traditional Salvadoran ingredient made from dried corn kernels that have been treated with an alkaline solution. It adds a unique flavor and texture to the dough. If you can't find masa harina, you can substitute it with cornmeal, although the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
• Experiment with different fillings by adding ingredients like cheese, olives, or jalapenos to the filling mixture.
• Serve the paszteciki with a side of curtido, a traditional Salvadoran cabbage slaw, for a refreshing and tangy contrast.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a dash of hot sauce or chili powder to the ground beef mixture.
• These paszteciki can be frozen before baking. Simply assemble them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply brush with the egg wash and bake for a few extra minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the Salvadoran-style Paszteciki warm as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad. They are also great for picnics or as a portable snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the paszteciki on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with a side of curtido and a squeeze of lime for an authentic Salvadoran touch.