
Photo from pinterest.com
Salteñas are a beloved Bolivian pastry, filled with a savory, flavorful stew encased in a golden, slightly sweet dough. These hand-held delights are known for their juicy filling, which often includes meat, potatoes, peas, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, Salteñas are a national treasure of Bolivia that combines rich flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients:
Dough:
4 cups (1.8 lbs or 0.8 kg) all-purpose flour
½ cup (0.22 lbs or 0.1 kg) sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (0.22 lbs or 100 g) butter or margarine, melted
1 cup (0.24 L) warm water
1 egg yolk
Filling:
1 lb (0.45 kg) ground beef or chicken
1 medium onion, finely diced (0.3 lbs or 0.14 kg)
2 medium potatoes, diced and boiled (0.6 lbs or 0.27 kg)
½ cup (0.25 lbs or 0.11 kg) peas
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
½ cup (0.25 lbs or 0.11 kg) green olives
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
1 cup (0.24 L) beef or chicken broth
2 tablespoons gelatin powder (to thicken the stew)
2 tablespoons oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until the texture resembles crumbs. Gradually add the warm water and egg yolk, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add ground beef or chicken, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned. Stir in broth and gelatin powder, letting the mixture simmer until it thickens. Remove from heat and gently fold in boiled potatoes, peas, hard-boiled eggs, and green olives. Allow the filling to cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Salteñas Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges tightly to seal, forming a crescent shape. Place the Salteñas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
Step 4: Bake the Salteñas Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving: Serve Salteñas warm with a side of llajwa, a spicy Bolivian salsa, or enjoy them on their own as a satisfying snack. These pastries are perfect for any time of day and are sure to impress at gatherings.
Salteñas are more than just a snack they’re a cultural icon in Bolivia. Their flavorful filling and perfectly baked crust make them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re exploring new cuisines or reminiscing about Bolivian flavors, Salteñas are a must-try recipe.