Authentic Aruban Pastechi: Caribbean Hand Pies

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup ice water
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg, beaten

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add the ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. While the dough is chilling, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain off any excess fat.
  5. Stir in the cumin, paprika, black pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Let the mixture cool.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out rounds using a 3-inch cookie cutter or glass.
  8. Spoon a tablespoon of the beef mixture onto one half of each round. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  9. Place the pastechis on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastechis are golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large mixing bowl - Needed to combine the flour, salt, and butter.
  • Plastic wrap - Used to wrap and refrigerate the dough.
  • Skillet - Used to cook the onion, garlic, and ground beef.
  • Spoon - Used to break up the ground beef and stir the mixture.
  • Cookie cutter or glass - Used to cut out the rounds of dough.
  • Fork - Used to crimp the edges of the pastechis.
  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the pastechis in the oven.
  • Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  • Pastry brush - Used to brush the beaten egg on top of the pastechis.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free version.
  • Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter meat option.
  • Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Include grated cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, in the filling for a cheesy twist.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or chili powder, to customize the flavor profile.
  • Create a gluten-free crust by using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
  • Make mini pastechis by using a smaller cookie cutter and adjusting the baking time accordingly.
  • Serve the pastechis with a side of spicy dipping sauce or salsa for an added burst of flavor.

Recipe overview

If you're looking to try something new and delicious, this Pastechi recipe is perfect for you. Pastechi is a traditional Aruban dish, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. These pastries are filled with a savory ground beef mixture, seasoned with cumin, paprika, and fresh parsley. The dough is homemade, buttery, and flaky, creating the perfect pocket for the filling. This recipe guides you through each step, from making the dough to preparing the filling and assembling the pastries. It's a fun and rewarding baking project that results in a dish full of flavor and texture. Enjoy these pastechis fresh from the oven for the best experience.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
  2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
    Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
  3. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
    Absolutely! Feel free to use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute for the ground beef.
  4. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  5. Can I freeze the pastechis?
    Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastechis. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake as directed.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining ingredients and mixing the dough
  • Skillet - A large skillet for cooking the ground beef and onion mixture
  • Spoon - A utensil for stirring and breaking up the ground beef
  • Rolling Pin - A tool for rolling out the dough to the desired thickness
  • Cookie Cutter or Glass - A round cookie cutter or glass for cutting out the dough rounds
  • Fork - A utensil for crimping the edges of the pastechis
  • Baking Sheet - A sheet pan lined with parchment paper for baking the pastechis
  • Pastry Brush - A brush for brushing the beaten egg on top of the pastechis

Origin stories

Pastechi, a delicious, flaky pastry filled with savory ingredients, is a beloved staple of Aruban cuisine. The snack has a rich, multicultural history, drawing influences from the indigenous Arawak people, the Dutch colonizers, and the African and Asian communities that have made Aruba their home. It's said that the pastechi's distinctive half-moon shape is inspired by the beautiful Aruban sunsets. Indeed, biting into a warm, freshly made pastechi is akin to capturing a piece of the island's sunset—the vibrant, diverse flavors unfolding in your mouth like the magnificent hues of an Aruban evening sky. True to Aruba's motto, "One Happy Island," it's hard not to feel a surge of happiness with every bite of a pastechi. It's more than just a snack—it's a delicious morsel of Aruba's rich cultural tapestry.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.