West Africa · Street food
Pastel com Diabo Dentro (Spicy Tuna Empanada)
Crispy golden fried pasties loaded with a fiery filling of sautéed fresh tuna, garlic, and fiery malagueta chilies.
The story
Pastel com Diabo Dentro, translating literally to 'pastry with the devil inside,' reigns as the quintessential street snack of Mindelo on São Vicente island. Sold from glass display cases at port taverns and seaside shacks, they are savored as afternoon 'petiscos' paired with cold grogue or beer. The unique chew and crispness of the dough comes from blending boiled tubers into the wheat base, while the devilish heat derives from Cabo Verde's beloved malagueta pepper, which cuts through the rich oiliness of the Atlantic tuna.
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