Kue pastel facts for kids
Indonesian pastel
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| Type | Kue |
|---|---|
| Course | Snack |
| Place of origin | Indonesia |
| Serving temperature | Hot or room temperature |
Have you ever tried a delicious deep-fried snack from Indonesia? It's called pastel! This yummy treat is a type of kue, which is a general term for traditional Indonesian snacks, cakes, or desserts. Pastels are filled with tasty ingredients like meat, vegetables, and thin rice vermicelli noodles. They are then deep-fried until golden and crispy.
You can often find pastels sold in busy traditional markets across Indonesia. They are a popular snack that people enjoy any time of day, whether hot or at room temperature.
Contents
What is Indonesian Pastel?
Indonesian pastel is a savory (not sweet) pastry. It has a thin, crispy outer crust. Inside, you'll find a delicious mix of ingredients. This makes it a satisfying and flavorful snack.
The Delicious Filling
The filling of a pastel usually includes finely chopped meat. This is often chicken or beef. It also has colorful vegetables like carrots and bean sprouts. Sometimes, you might even find slices of boiled eggs inside! All these ingredients are mixed with rice vermicelli, which are thin, clear noodles.
How Pastels are Made
Pastels are made by wrapping the filling in a thin pastry dough. The edges are often crimped or folded to seal them. After being filled and shaped, the pastels are deep-fried in hot vegetable oil. This cooking method gives them their signature crispy texture and golden-brown color.
The History of Pastel
The idea for pastel likely came from Portugal. Portugal had a strong influence in Indonesia many centuries ago. This means that pastel might be related to similar pastries found in Portuguese cuisine. It shows how different cultures can share food ideas and create new, exciting dishes!
Different Kinds of Pastel
While the classic pastel is very popular, there are also some unique versions in different parts of Indonesia. These variations show how creative people can be with food!
Panada: The Spicy North Sulawesi Version
In North Sulawesi, especially in the Manado area, there's a snack called panada. It's similar to pastel but has some key differences. Instead of a thin pastry crust, panada uses a soft, bread-like dough. The filling is also different. It's usually made with spicy cakalang, which is a type of fish called skipjack tuna. Panada is a favorite for those who love a bit of spice!
Epok-Epok: The Riau Islands' Take
If you visit the Riau Islands, you might find a pastel-like snack called epok-epok. This version is also a deep-fried pastry with various fillings. It's another example of how local traditions shape food in different regions of Indonesia.
When Do People Eat Pastel?
Pastels are a common snack for everyday enjoyment. They are easy to grab and eat on the go. They are also very popular during special times.
A Favorite During Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, many people in Indonesia fast from sunrise to sunset. When it's time to break their fast in the evening, called iftar, pastels are a very popular choice. They are a comforting and delicious food to enjoy after a long day of fasting.
