Delicious Homemade Pastechi Pastry Dough Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I am excited to share with you my recipe for Pastechi Pastry Dough. This recipe is a traditional pastry dough recipe from the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba, and it is used to make the famous Pastechi pastries. Trust me when I say that this recipe is a game-changer. It is straightforward to make and requires minimal ingredients, but the end result is a flaky and buttery pastry that will leave you craving for more.

If you have never tried Pastechi before, then you are in for a treat. Pastechi is a popular snack in the Caribbean, and it is similar to an empanada or a turnover. It is a stuffed pastry that can be filled with anything from cheese to meat or even tuna. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative with your filling choices.

This recipe is perfect for those who want to try their hand at making Pastechi at home. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough to follow and will yield impressive results. So, let’s get started and make some delicious Pastechi pastry dough!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pastechi Pastry Dough
Pastechi Pastry Dough

If you’re looking for a versatile and tasty pastry dough recipe, then you’ll definitely love this pastechi pastry dough recipe. As a chef, I can tell you that this dough recipe is perfect for making delicious pastries like empanadas, tuna pies, and the traditional Antillean pastechi.

One of the reasons why you’ll love this recipe is because it’s easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients like white flour, butter, and eggs, you can make a batch of delicious pastechi pastry dough in no time. Plus, this recipe is customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to make it sweeter or saltier, depending on your taste.

Another reason why you’ll love this recipe is because of its versatility. You can use this pastry dough to make a variety of pastries, from savory empanadas stuffed with meat to sweet pastries filled with gouda cheese. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with your fillings to make unique and delicious pastries that your family and friends will love.

Aside from its versatility and ease of preparation, this pastechi pastry dough recipe is also budget-friendly. The ingredients are simple and affordable, and you can make a large batch to freeze for later use. This means that you can enjoy delicious pastries anytime you want, without breaking the bank.

So, if you’re a pastry lover or just looking for a new recipe to try, then this pastechi pastry dough recipe is definitely worth a try. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and budget-friendly ingredients, you’ll definitely love making and eating delicious pastries made with this dough recipe.

Ingredient List

 A beautiful ball of dough, ready to be transformed into delicious pastechi.
A beautiful ball of dough, ready to be transformed into delicious pastechi.

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious Pastechi Pastry Dough recipe:

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of white flour
  • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 2 tablespoons of butter, melted

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of cold water

Note that this recipe makes enough dough for approximately 9 pastechi. If you need to make more, simply double or triple the recipe accordingly.

The Recipe How-To

Now, let’s get into the exciting part – making the pastechi pastry dough from scratch! Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp white sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup shortening, chilled and cubed
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk

Steps

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and white sugar until well combined.
  2. Add the chilled butter and shortening to the mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter and shortening into the flour mixture until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Beat the egg in a small bowl and add it to the mixture. Then, add the milk and stir until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
  4. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it lightly for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
  5. Divide the dough into 9 equal pieces – this recipe will yield 9 pastechi. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten into a disc shape.
  6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.

Congratulations, you have successfully made the pastechi pastry dough! Now, it’s time to start filling them with your favorite ingredients and bake them to perfection.

Substitutions and Variations

 This pastry dough is perfect for savory or sweet fillings.
This pastry dough is perfect for savory or sweet fillings.

The beauty of cooking is that you can always make adjustments to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try out with this pastechi pastry dough recipe.

– Flour: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may differ slightly.

– Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with sunflower oil or a vegan butter substitute.

– Sugar: For a healthier option, you can use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of white sugar.

– Fillings: The pastechi pastry dough can be filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. Some popular options include empanada stuffed with meat, tuna pie, or even gouda cheese. Get creative and try out different combinations!

– Deep-frying: Traditional pastechi is deep-fried, but if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake them in the oven instead.

– Regional variations: Pastechi is a popular snack in the Caribbean, and each island has its own unique twist on the recipe. For example, in Aruba, they use a mix of butter and shortening in the dough, while in Curacao, they make a version called pastechi de keshi, which is filled with Gouda cheese.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and finding what works best for you. So don’t be afraid to try out different substitutions and variations to make this pastechi pastry dough recipe your own.

Serving and Pairing

 With its crispy exterior and flaky texture, this dough will make your pastechi irresistible.
With its crispy exterior and flaky texture, this dough will make your pastechi irresistible.

Once you have made the perfect pastechi pastry dough, it’s time to think about how to serve and pair it. Traditionally, pastechi is a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, tuna, or chicken. They are perfect as a snack or appetizer but can also be served as a main course.

To serve, you can sprinkle a little bit of powdered sugar on top for a sweet and savory taste. Alternatively, you can serve it with hot sauce, aioli, or other dips. The pastechi pairs well with a cold beer or a refreshing tropical drink.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different fillings to create your own unique version of pastechi. For a vegetarian option, try filling it with spinach and feta or roasted vegetables. For a sweet option, try filling the pastechi with apple or banana and cinnamon.

In Aruba and Curaçao, pastechi is often served as a side dish or snack with soups, stews, and salads. It’s a staple food in the Caribbean and is perfect for any occasion.

No matter how you serve or pair your pastechi pastry, one thing is for sure: it’s a crowd-pleaser. Your friends and family will be impressed with your culinary skills and will be begging for more.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Mixing the dough is a great way to de-stress and get your hands dirty.
Mixing the dough is a great way to de-stress and get your hands dirty.

One of the great things about this pastechi pastry dough recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated for later use. This is especially handy if you have a busy schedule or want to prepare for a party or gathering.

To make ahead, simply follow the recipe as directed and store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.

Storing the pastechi pastry dough is easy. After you’ve made the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can make the dough ahead of time and have it ready to use whenever you need it.

Reheating pastechi pastry is also a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pastechi on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat pastechi pastry in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the power of your microwave.

If you have any leftover pastechi pastry, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pastechi pastry for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat using one of the methods described above.

Remember, pastechi pastry is best when it’s fresh and hot out of the oven. But with this recipe, you don’t have to worry about making it all at once. You can make ahead, store, and reheat with ease.

Tips for Perfect Results

 A little bit of flour and elbow grease is all it takes to create this amazing pastry dough.
A little bit of flour and elbow grease is all it takes to create this amazing pastry dough.

Now that you have the ingredients and steps down for making the perfect pastechi pastry dough, here are some tips to ensure that you get the best results:

Firstly, make sure to measure all ingredients accurately. A slight variation in measurement can affect the texture and taste of the pastry dough. It’s important to use the exact measurements mentioned in the recipe to get the desired results.

Secondly, use cold butter and water. Cold butter and water ensure that the dough stays firm and doesn’t become sticky, making it easier to work with. The cold temperature also helps in achieving a flaky texture that is characteristic of pastechi pastry.

Thirdly, don’t overwork the dough. Overworking the dough can cause the butter to melt and result in a tough and chewy pastry. After adding the liquid mixture to the flour mixture, mix until just combined, and then stop.

Fourthly, let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes before using it. Resting allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and shape.

Fifthly, use a rolling pin to roll out the dough. A rolling pin helps to ensure that the dough is rolled out evenly, and to the desired thickness. If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can use a wine bottle or a cylindrical object instead.

Sixthly, use a pastry cutter or a knife to cut the dough into the desired shape. Ensure that the cuts are clean and even to achieve a uniform shape.

Lastly, bake the pastry at the right temperature and for the right duration. This will help to ensure that the pastry is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.

By following these tips, you can be sure to achieve perfect results every time you make pastechi pastry dough.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Pastechi Pastry Dough Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves delicious pastries. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit various tastes and preferences. Whether you want to make pastechi de keshi, tuna pie, empanada or any other filling, this recipe has got you covered.

I hope that this article has given you all the information you need to make the perfect pastechi pastry dough. With the right ingredients and technique, you can create tasty and flaky pastries that will impress your family and friends. So don’t wait any longer, gather all the ingredients and start baking!

Remember to follow the tips and recommendations in this article for the best results. Also, feel free to experiment with different fillings and serving options to make your pastechi pastry even more enjoyable.

In conclusion, the Pastechi Pastry Dough Recipe is a recipe worth trying out. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can make delicious pastries that will leave your taste buds wanting more. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the deliciousness of pastechi pastries.

Pastechi Pastry Dough Recipe

Antillean meat turnover pastry…I posted the recipe for the filling separately. These are a real taste treat for my family and reminds us of our time living on the southern Caribbean island of Bonaire. There is time and effort involved, but the results are worth it! Prep time includes resting time for pastry.

  • 9 cups white flour
  • 6 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 cup butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 teaspoons sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk (more if needed)
  • hot oil
  1. Mix dry ingredients with butter.
  2. Slowly add liquid.
  3. Knead to a smooth ball and let stand 20 minutes.
  4. Roll out thinly on lightly floured board.
  5. Cut into rounds using biscuit cutter or glass.
  6. Place 1 generous tsp of Pastechi filling (recipe posted separately) onto rounds.
  7. Fold rounds in half; seal and crimp edges.
  8. Fry in oil until golden brown.
  9. Drain on paper towels.
  10. Serve warm and with ketchup, if desired.
  11. ***recipemay be halved.
Appetizer
Caribbean
< 4 Hours, Caribbean, Deep Fried, Healthy, Meat, Stove Top, Weeknight

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