Saltenas - How to prepare this Bolivian pastries

 

*Salteñas** are delicious Bolivian pastries filled with a savory mixture of meat, potatoes, peas, and other flavorful ingredients. Here's a detailed guide on how to prepare Salteñas:

### Ingredients:

#### For the Dough:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup warm water

- 1 cup vegetable shortening

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon sugar

#### For the Filling:

- 1 lb beef, finely chopped

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

- 1 cup frozen peas

- 2 potatoes, boiled and diced

- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped

- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 teaspoons ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup beef or chicken broth

#### For Sealing and Glazing:

- 2 tablespoons sugar

- 1/2 cup warm water

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

### Instructions:

#### **Dough Preparation:**

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.

2. Add the vegetable shortening and gradually mix in warm water until you form a smooth dough.

3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it's elastic and not sticky.

4. Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions and cover them with a damp cloth. Let them rest while preparing the filling.

#### **Filling Preparation:**

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sauté until softened.

2. Add finely chopped beef and cook until browned. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Stir in peas, diced potatoes, olives, and raisins (if using). Cook for a few minutes.

4. Pour in beef or chicken broth, reduce heat, and let the mixture simmer until most of the liquid evaporates.

5. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool. Stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs.

#### **Assembly:**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Take each ball of dough and roll it into a thin circle on a floured surface.

3. Place a generous portion of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle.

4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then pinch and twist the edges to seal.

5. Mix sugar, warm water, and vegetable oil for the glaze. Brush each Salteña with this mixture.

#### **Baking:**

1. Place the Salteñas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade Salteñas, a delightful Bolivian treat!