Dive into the heart of Colombian cuisine with the irresistible "Pastel San Pedrino"! This savory dish, a delightful blend of cornmeal, tender meat, and flavorful rice, is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Colombia. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s unlock the secrets to making this traditional treasure!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 1 lb meat (beef or chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meat by seasoning with salt and pepper, then cooking thoroughly in a pan until fully browned and cooked through. Chop the meat into small pieces.
- In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion until translucent and soft. Mix the cooked meat with the sautéed onions.
- Add the cooked rice to the meat mixture and blend well. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal with the broth, gradually mixing to create a smooth, consistent dough. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Grease a large baking dish or traditional clay pot with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Spread half of the cornmeal dough as a base layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even thickness.
- Carefully spread the meat and rice mixture over the cornmeal base, creating an even layer.
- Cover the meat filling with the remaining cornmeal dough, sealing the edges to create a complete enclosure.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour, removing the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow the top to golden and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the pastel to set.
- Slice and serve warm, optionally accompanied by a fresh salad or aji sauce.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: Whether you opt for beef or chicken, using high-quality, fresh meat will elevate the flavor of your pastel. Don't shy away from seasoning your meat generously to enhance its taste.
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Ensure your rice is well-cooked but not mushy. This will help maintain the texture of your filling and prevent it from becoming too dense.
- Sauté the Onions: Sautéing the onions until they are translucent adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the meat mixture. This step is crucial for a rich, layered taste.
- Achieving the Right Dough Consistency: When mixing the cornmeal with the broth, aim for a dough that holds its shape but is still pliable. Adjust the broth quantity as needed to reach the perfect consistency.
- Grease the Baking Dish Well: To avoid any sticking, make sure to generously grease your baking dish or clay pot. This ensures that your pastel comes out beautifully intact.
- Cover with Foil: Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture, resulting in a tender pastel. Remove it towards the end to achieve a golden, crispy top.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pastel to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Pastel San Pedrino with a fresh salad or a spicy aji sauce for an extra kick that complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
