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Embark on a culinary journey to Senegal with our Pastels recipe. Pastels are delectable Senegalese savory pastries that offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures. These golden pockets of goodness are a true representation of West African cuisine, and making them at home allows you to experience a taste of Senegal in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
To create these mouthwatering Pastels, you'll need the following ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or fish
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
Follow these steps to create your Senegalese Pastels:
Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and warm water. Knead the mixture into a smooth, elastic dough. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Make the Filling:
In a separate pan, cook the ground beef or fish until browned. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Assemble the Pastels:
Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut it into circles or squares. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
Fry the Pastels:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan for frying. Carefully place the pastels in the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serving:
Serve your freshly fried Pastels hot and crispy. They make for a fantastic appetizer or snack, and they can be enjoyed with a side of hot sauce or chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
In conclusion, Pastels are a delightful representation of Senegalese cuisine. These savory pastries are a testament to the rich and diverse flavors of West Africa. By following this recipe, you can recreate the taste of Senegal in your own kitchen and experience the cultural richness that Senegalese Pastels have to offer.
