Excellent dishes on the dining table you should not miss

Pastel de Carne Recipe
A classic meat pie perfect for a snack or appetizer. The crispy crust and rich meat filling make it irresistible!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup (80ml) cold water
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300g (10 oz) ground beef or pork
• 1 small tomato, finely chopped (optional)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 boiled egg, diced (optional, traditional in Portuguese cuisine)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, combine the butter and flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Avoid over-kneading.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the ground beef or pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
4. Stir in the tomato, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the tomato is soft and the filling is well combined, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and diced boiled egg (if using). Let the filling cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛ inch (3mm) thickness.
3. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass (4–5 inches/10–12cm in diameter).
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
6. Transfer the pies to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Pies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature as a snack or appetizer. Pair with a side of fresh salad or dipping sauce for extra flavor.