In Brazil, few street foods are as beloved as the pastel. This crispy, deep-fried pastry is a staple at open-air markets and street fairs, offering a satisfying bite that is both crunchy and flavorful. Whether filled with gooey cheese, seasoned meats, or sweet delights, pastels are more than just a snack—they’re a comfort food that brings people together. While the classic versions remain popular, different regions and personal tastes have led to endless variations of this delicious treat. That’s why we’re here to explore some of the most common variations in this month’s blog.
Savory Pastels: The Classics and Beyond
Savory fillings are the most traditional, with some flavors found across the country and others unique to specific areas. Some of the most popular include:
- Pastel de Queijo (Cheese Pastel) – A simple yet irresistible choice, this pastel is often filled with mozzarella or catupiry, a creamy Brazilian cheese.
- Pastel de Carne (Meat Pastel) – Typically filled with ground beef seasoned with onions, garlic, and sometimes olives or boiled eggs for extra texture.
- Pastel de Frango com Catupiry (Chicken and Catupiry) – Shredded, well-seasoned chicken combined with catupiry cheese creates a rich, creamy filling.
- Pastel de Palmito (Heart of Palm) – A vegetarian favorite, featuring a soft, slightly tangy filling of hearts of palm cooked in a creamy sauce.
- Pastel de Camarão (Shrimp Pastel) – Popular in coastal areas, this version is stuffed with seasoned shrimp, often mixed with catupiry or cream cheese.
Sweet Pastels: A Crispy Take on Dessert
While savory pastels are the most common, sweet varieties have gained popularity as well. The crispy shell provides the perfect contrast to soft, decadent fillings like:
- Pastel de Banana com Canela (Banana and Cinnamon Pastel) – Sliced bananas mixed with cinnamon and sugar create a warm, comforting filling.
- Pastel de Doce de Leite (Dulce de Leche Pastel) – A favorite for those with a sweet tooth, this pastel oozes rich, caramel-like dulce de leche.
- Pastel de Chocolate (Chocolate Pastel) – Filled with melted chocolate, sometimes combined with bananas or strawberries for extra indulgence.
- Pastel Romeu e Julieta (Guava and Cheese Pastel) – This sweet-savory combination features guava paste paired with creamy cheese, a classic Brazilian pairing.
Regional Twists and Unique Variations
Brazil’s diverse food culture means that pastels come in countless regional variations. In São Paulo, pastel vendors at open-air markets serve oversized, ultra-thin pastels stuffed with generous fillings. In Minas Gerais, pastels often feature local cheeses, while in the Amazon region, they may be filled with tropical ingredients like açaí-based jams or local fish. No matter where you go, each version carries a distinct local flair!
Get the Best Brazilian Comfort at Food Chelmsford Sub Shoppe!
At Chelmsford Sub Shoppe, we know that comfort food comes in many shapes—and sometimes, it’s golden, crispy, and stuffed with flavor. Our love for pastels is part of what inspires us to bring bold, satisfying flavors to our own kitchen. Whether you’re craving something savory or a little on the sweet side, we’re always serving up something that hits the spot. Come visit us and experience the flavors for yourself!