Brasileiro Meat Pastry Bites

Ingredients

• 300 gground beef
• 1onion
• 12pastry wrappers
• for fryingoil
• to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

1. Start by finely chopping 1 onion. This will ensure it cooks evenly and integrates well with the ground beef. Set the onion aside, and then season 300 g of ground beef with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix the seasoning into the beef thoroughly using your hands or a fork, ensuring even distribution.
2. In a large skillet, heat enough oil to generously coat the bottom of the pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and begins to lightly brown. This will take about 3 to 4 minutes and will add a sweet, aromatic base to the filling.
3. Add the seasoned ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently, cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, with no pink remaining. The beef should be crumbly and well combined with the onions, releasing a savory aroma.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the beef mixture to cool slightly. This step is important to prevent the pastry wrappers from becoming soggy when filled. Meanwhile, lay out 12 pastry wrappers on a clean surface, ready for filling.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto the center of each pastry wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the wrappers to tear. Fold each wrapper over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they are well sealed.
6. In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil to submerge the pastry bites over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of pastry into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Carefully add the pastry bites in batches, frying until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
7. Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the pastry bites from the oil, letting any excess oil drain off. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb additional oil. Finish with a light sprinkle of fine sea salt while they are still hot, enhancing their flavor.
8. Serve the Brasileiro Meat Pastry Bites immediately, while they are warm and crispy. Arrange them on a platter for sharing, embracing the communal spirit of Brazilian home cooking. Enjoy the savory, crunchy bites with friends and family.