The Brazilian Pastel de Carne Burger is a creative culinary tribute that celebrates the essence of Brazilian street food while embracing the universal love for burgers. This inventive fusion brings together the rich and flavorful filling from the traditional “pastel de carne”—a staple snack sold from kiosks and carts across Brazil—and reimagines it as a playful, hearty burger that’s perfect for gatherings or indulgent meals at home.
The inspiration for this dish stems from “pastéis”, which are crispy, deep-fried pockets of dough filled with seasoned meats, cheese, or other delicious ingredients. A favorite among Brazilians, these snacks are often shared in lively family settings and social gatherings. “Pastel de carne”, in particular, is celebrated for its savory, spiced beef filling, typically enriched with fragrant spices, onions, and green olives. This flavor-packed filling is the heart of the Brazilian Pastel de Carne Burger. By transferring the essence of this street food classic to a burger format, the recipe bridges culinary cultures and invites you to savor new textures and forms while staying true to the original spirit of the dish.
The recipe itself mirrors the rich, robust flavors of the original “pastel de carne”. Ground beef is seasoned with earthy cumin, sweet paprika, and black pepper to create an aromatic profile. Chopped green olives add both tang and a touch of saltiness, which cuts through the richness of the meat. Sauteed onions serve as the base of the filling, balancing the flavors with their subtle sweetness. The result is a deeply satisfying mixture that beautifully pays homage to the filling found in the “pastel”.
What sets this burger apart is not just the filling but also its thoughtful construction. The burger buns, a nod to the popular all-encompassing sandwich we all recognize, are toasted to perfection, providing a satisfying crunch to complement the soft filling and fresh garnishes. The addition of mayonnaise adds a creamy element that ties everything together, while classic burger accompaniments like crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes lend freshness and balance. For an elevated presentation, the buns can be given a quick egg-wash glaze for a glossy finish, a small detail inspired by the golden pastry crust of “pastéis”.
This recipe embodies the spirit of fusion cooking, blending beloved traditions with modern tastes and accessibility. It is perfect for anyone looking to explore Brazilian flavors in a casual yet refined way or for those who simply want to try a twist on their usual burger night. The dish can also be adapted for diverse needs, such as using plant-based ground meat for vegetarians, ensuring its appeal for a wide audience.
Whether you’re familiar with Brazilian cuisine or discovering it for the first time, the Brazilian Pastel de Carne Burger serves as a delicious gateway. It reminds us how food can connect us across cultures, taking one country’s street food staple and reimaging it as a global favorite. Whether enjoyed at a barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual lunch, this burger is all about celebrating flavor, creativity, and comfort in every bite.
Brazilian Street Food Meets Burger in Delicious Fusion
Ingredients
Burger Components
- 1 cup onion finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 500 grams ground beef preferably 80% lean
- 1 tsp cumin ground
- 1 tsp paprika sweet
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup green olives chopped
- 4 medium burger buns freshly baked
Optional Garnishes
- 1 medium egg yolk for egg wash
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 cup lettuce leaves washed and dried
- 1 large tomato sliced
- ¼ cup mayonnaise preferably homemade
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (175°C/347°F). Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, around 4-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix to combine the flavors well. Add the chopped green olives and allow the mixture to cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Toast the burger buns to a golden perfection, about 1-2 minutes on each side.
- To assemble, spread a layer of mayonnaise on both halves of the toasted buns. Place a generous scoop of the meat mixture onto the bottom half, top with lettuce, sliced tomato, and cover with the top half of the bun.
- For a glossy finish, brush the top of the buns with an egg wash made of one egg yolk and a tablespoon of water, then lightly toast them again if desired.