If you are a fan of cheese, then you will definitely love pastelitos de queso. These are delicious cheese pastries that originate from Latin America, particularly in countries such as Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela. Pastelitos de queso are perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. The pastry is light and flaky, and the filling is cheesy and savory, making it a perfect combination.
Ingredients
To make pastelitos de queso, you will need the following ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
1/2 cup cold water
1 egg, beaten
1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the pastry
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add the cold water and mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbled queso fresco, grated parmesan cheese, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the pastelitos
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough. Place a tablespoon of the cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges. Brush the pastries with beaten egg.
Step 4: Bake the pastelitos
Place the pastelitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Here is the nutritional information for one serving of pastelitos de queso (one pastry):
Calories: 225
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 290mg
Total Carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 7g
Conclusion
In conclusion, pastelitos de queso are a delicious and easy-to-make pastry that is perfect for any occasion. With a light and flaky pastry and a cheesy and savory filling, this pastry is sure to please any cheese lover. So, why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste of Latin America in the comfort of your own home.