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Fried Pastry
Pastel

Fried Pastry

"A crispy, thin fried pastry filled with cheese, meat, shrimp, or hearts of palm. Sold at street fairs and markets, best eaten hot and fresh with a sugarcane juice."

Logistics

Affordable

Vibe

Crispy street food

Duration

10-15 mins

Best For

Quick lunch

The Backstory

Brought by Japanese immigrants in the early 20th century (inspired by Chinese spring rolls). Brazilians made it bigger, crispier, and filled it with local ingredients.

Local Secret

"Go to Sunday's Hippie Fair in Ipanema for the best pastels. Order 'queijo' (cheese) or 'camarão' (shrimp). Pair with caldo de cana (sugarcane juice) for the ultimate combo."

Gallery

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