Pastelitos—savory, fried half-moon pastries—are a beloved snack across Puerto Rico and Latin America. These handheld pockets of flavor are surprisingly easy to make, especially with a few modern shortcuts. This recipe delivers the authentic taste in under an hour, relying on store-bought dough and pre-made seasoning blends for speed without sacrificing flavor.
Why These Pastelitos Stand Out
These aren’t just another fried snack. Pastelitos are a cultural staple, often found in street food stalls and home kitchens. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic sofrito, and melty cheese makes them irresistibly satisfying. Using store-bought dough cuts down prep time, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
The Key to Flavor: Sofrito & Sazón
The magic lies in the filling. Sofrito and sazón are flavor-packed seasoning blends that bring a lot of complexity without requiring a long list of ingredients. Sofrito, a base of sautéed aromatics, provides depth, while sazón adds the signature Latin spice. Using lean ground beef keeps the filling from becoming greasy during frying.
Making Pastelitos: Step-by-Step
- Prepare the Filling: Sauté sofrito and sazón in oil until fragrant. Add ground beef and olives, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat to prevent spattering. Season to taste with salt.
- Assemble: Place dough discs on a clean surface. Add cheese (optional) and 2 tablespoons of filling to one side. Fold over to form a half-moon, sealing the edges firmly with a fork.
- Fry: Heat oil in a skillet until shimmering. Fry pastelitos in batches until golden-brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Pro Tip: If the dough isn’t sticking, lightly wet the edges with water before folding.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven. Pastelitos pair well with rice and beans, a fresh salad, or simply enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack.
These quick, flavorful pastelitos prove that authentic taste doesn’t have to come at the expense of convenience. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a little piece of Latin American culinary tradition right in your kitchen.
