Pastelitos are pastry turnovers. They originate from the Dominican Republic, but most Spanish-speaking countries have them. Such countries have adapted the recipe to their own customs. It is basically a pastry that can cover just about anything you want. For a heavier meal, you can add beef or chicken. If you are a vegetarian, take out the meat and add only vegetables. Even vegans can adapt it for their pleasure. For a dessert, just add jam or fruit filling.
Americans from Latin American countries who own restaurants often have this dish as an item on their menu. They are very popular in the Cuban neighborhood restaurants in cities like Miami and in Dominican restaurants in New York City. Pastelitos with coffee is popular throughout the day in many of Miami’s sidewalk cafes.
Many different edible flavors can be added to the pastries. Commonly used fillings include tropical fruits like coconut, guava and pineapple. Cream cheese and other flavors of cheese are also frequently added fillings. Meats include ham, beef, and poultry. Many are filled with green olives, raisins or other fillers.
The pastry can be adapted to almost any type of meal or eating event. With meat it serves as the center piece of an attractive dinner. With fruit fillings it can function as the dessert item. In other contexts it might be used for breakfast, lunch or a midnight snack.
The pastries are now marketed to retail grocery outlets. Many Latino markets sell them and they are also distributed by Goya Foods, a national supplier of groceries. Many cafeterias, especially in Hispanic areas, also offer the pastry as part of their menu.
To find recipes for preparing the pastry, the Internet is a good resource. Some specialty cook books might also feature recipes. The pastry is not hard to prepare but it does take some skill and practice to make it just right.
Pastelitos are a popular Caribbean or Latin American pastry that can be used in a variety of different ways. As the United States becomes more infused with Latin culture, this dish may increase in popularity. Since it is very versatile and tasty, this is probably a good thing. They make a nice small meal or a nice compliment to a full meal.
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