Pastelitos Criollos (Sweet Potato Pastries)

Ingredients

• 1 package Puff Pastry
• 1 cup Sweet Potato Paste
• 2 cups Vegetable Oil
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 2 tbsp Water

Instructions

1. 1Unroll the 1 package of puff pastry onto a clean, dry surface. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry sheet into eight 4-inch (10 cm) squares.
2. 2Place 1 tablespoon of the 1 cup of Sweet Potato Paste in the center of each pastry square. Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle, then gently press the edges together to seal them completely.
3. 3Pour the 2 cups of Vegetable Oil into a 10-inch (25 cm) heavy-bottomed skillet or a medium pot. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. 4Carefully place 2-3 pastries into the hot oil, ensuring they are not crowded. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until they are golden brown and visibly puffed and crispy.
5. 5Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried pastries to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining pastries.
6. 6In a small saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup of Sugar and 2 tablespoons of Water. Heat over low heat (approximately 150-180°F / 65-82°C), stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture forms a clear syrup, about 2-3 minutes.
7. 7While the pastries are still warm, use a pastry brush to generously coat each pastry with the prepared sugar syrup.

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