Empanadas are a beloved Latin American dish, known for their golden, flaky crust and savory filling. These delicious pastries are a perfect handheld snack or main course that can be filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, or cheese, making them highly versatile. Whether you bake or fry them, empanadas offer a delightful crunch on the outside with a warm, flavorful filling on the inside.
Originating from Spain, empanadas have become a staple in many Latin American countries, with each region adding its unique twist to the recipe. While traditionally enjoyed during special occasions or gatherings, empanadas are also a great way to use up leftover meats or vegetables, offering endless possibilities for creativity in the kitchen. They are perfect for parties, picnics, or just a cozy dinner at home. The combination of flaky dough and savory filling makes them a universally loved dish that’s sure to please everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Customizable Fillings
Empanadas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from beef and chicken to vegetables and cheese, allowing you to cater to your specific tastes or dietary preferences.
2. Handheld Convenience
These individual-sized pastries are easy to eat on the go, making them perfect for picnics, parties, or even as a quick meal.
3. Crispy, Golden Perfection
Whether baked or fried, the empanada crust turns out wonderfully crispy and golden, providing the perfect contrast to the tender filling.
4. Easy to Make
Although empanadas might look complicated, they are actually quite simple to prepare, especially when using store-bought dough.
5. Great for Meal Prep
Empanadas are excellent for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and freeze them for future use, allowing for a delicious, quick meal whenever you need it.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Butter or vegetable shortening
- Salt
- Water
- Egg (for egg wash)
For the filling:
- Ground beef or chicken (or any protein of choice)
- Onion
- Bell pepper
- Garlic
- Spices (cumin, paprika, chili powder)
- Salt and pepper
- Hard-boiled eggs (optional)
- Olives (optional)
- Cheese (optional)
For frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying) or a baking sheet (for baking)
Variations
- Vegetarian Empanadas: Use a combination of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a vegetarian version of empanadas.
- Cheese Empanadas: Fill the empanadas with melted cheese or a cheese blend such as mozzarella, cheddar, or cream cheese for a cheesy snack.
- Sweet Empanadas: For a dessert version, fill the empanadas with sweet fillings like apple, cinnamon, and sugar or dulce de leche and fry or bake them for a sweet treat.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Cut in the butter or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, a little at a time, until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth, then cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground meat (or vegetables), spices, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Stir in any optional ingredients like chopped olives or hard-boiled eggs. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball into a circle about 4-6 inches in diameter on a lightly floured surface.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this could make the empanada difficult to seal.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press down the edges and seal the empanada. For a more decorative look, you can crimp the edges with your fingers or twist the dough slightly.
Step 6: Fry or Bake
To fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Fry the empanadas for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
To bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each empanada with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the empanadas hot with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Chill the Dough: If you’re using homemade dough, make sure to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps the dough become more pliable and easier to work with.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the empanadas, as this can cause the dough to break open during cooking.
- Seal the Edges Well: Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Bake for a Lighter Option: For a lighter version of this dish, try baking the empanadas instead of frying them. The crust will still turn out crispy and golden.
- Make in Bulk: Empanadas freeze well. Make a large batch and freeze the uncooked empanadas for later use. Just bake or fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Serve
Empanadas are versatile and can be served on their own or with various sides. Pair them with a fresh salad, like a tangy coleslaw or avocado salad, for a well-rounded meal. They also go wonderfully with dipping sauces such as salsa, chimichurri, guacamole, or sour cream. For a more festive touch, serve with a side of rice and beans or roasted vegetables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Freezing
Empanadas can be frozen both before and after cooking. To freeze uncooked empanadas, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for storage. When you’re ready to cook, bake or fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
To freeze cooked empanadas, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Reheating
To reheat empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I make empanadas with puff pastry?
Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry dough as a shortcut, although it will give the empanadas a flakier texture. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the empanadas.
3. How do I make empanadas without frying them?
To make empanadas without frying them, simply bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, brushing with an egg wash for a golden finish.
4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork are great alternatives to beef in empanadas.
5. Can I add cheese to the filling?
Absolutely! Cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, can be added to the filling for a creamy texture and extra flavor.
6. How do I seal the empanadas properly?
To seal the empanadas, fold the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork. Make sure there are no gaps or holes to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
7. Can I make sweet empanadas?
Yes, sweet empanadas can be made by filling them with fruits like apples, pears, or berries, or even sweet fillings like dulce de leche or chocolate.
8. How long do empanadas last in the fridge?
Empanadas will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
9. Can I freeze empanadas before cooking them?
Yes, uncooked empanadas freeze well. You can freeze them and cook them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
10. Can I use pre-made empanada dough?
Yes, store-bought empanada dough is a convenient option and can save time. Simply roll out the dough and fill with your favorite filling.
Conclusion
Empanadas are a versatile, flavorful dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether filled with savory meats, cheese, or vegetables, these golden pastries are sure to be a hit at any occasion. With a flaky crust, a savory filling, and endless possibilities for variation, empanadas offer something for everyone. They are perfect for parties, meal prepping, or a cozy dinner at home, making them a must-try in any kitchen.
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Empanadas
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
Description
These crispy, golden empanadas are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned meat, vegetables, and spices, making them the perfect handheld treat. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, empanadas are a flavorful, satisfying bite with a flaky crust and a delicious filling inside.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken, pork, or beef of choice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional for sweetness)
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
For Frying or Baking:
- Vegetable oil (for frying) or egg wash (for baking)
Instructions
For the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Stir to combine and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth (or water), olives, raisins, and hard-boiled egg (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
For the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too dry, add more cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, roll them into balls, and cover them with a clean towel. Let rest for 15 minutes.
To Assemble:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C) if frying.
- Roll out each dough ball on a floured surface into a 5-6 inch circle.
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the filling into the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp them with a fork to seal.
- If baking, brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- If frying, carefully drop the empanadas into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
To Serve:
- Serve the empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chimichurri, salsa, or sour cream.
Notes
- You can freeze uncooked empanadas for later. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag. To cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or fry as usual.
- Try adding cheese, potatoes, or other vegetables to the filling for variety.
- To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with a combination of beans, potatoes, or tofu.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (frying) or 25-30 minutes (baking)
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American, Argentinian, Spanish
Keywords: Empanadas, savory hand pies, Latin American food, stuffed pastry, crispy empanadas, homemade empanadas, meat pies