Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Haiti! Pâté Haïtien is not just a recipe; it's a crispy, golden treasure packed with mouthwatering flavors that will make your family and friends beg for more. These delectable hand-held pastries are the ultimate comfort food that combines flaky, buttery dough with a savory meat filling that's guaranteed to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 45 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Haitian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 pound ground beef or pork
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
- Add the softened butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the water, a little at a time, mixing with your hands until the dough comes together. You may not need all the water, so add just enough to form a soft, pliable dough.
- Once the dough is formed, knead it gently on a floured surface for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, ground beef or pork, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 10-15 minutes. Ensure to break up any clumps of meat while cooking.
- Once the meat is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into equal portions, about the size of a golf ball.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Place a generous spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this will make it difficult to seal.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal and decorative touch.
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Pâté Haïtien warm, either as an appetizer or a main dish, and enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional Haitian treat.
Tips
- Chill Your Dough: Don't skip the refrigeration step! Cold dough is easier to handle and creates a flakier crust.
- Seal Carefully: Use a fork to crimp the edges and prevent filling from leaking during frying.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep your oil at a consistent medium-high heat (around 350°F) to ensure even browning.
- Don't Overcrowd: Fry the patties in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispy results.
- Meat Filling Tip: Make sure to break up meat into small pieces for a more uniform filling.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, and consider pairing with a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and assemble just before frying for convenience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
