Empanadas Recipe
Empanadas are a delightful pastry filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re craving savory or sweet, this recipe guides you through creating the perfect empanadas from scratch. With a crispy golden crust and a flavorful filling, these treats are perfect as appetizers or a main dish. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 cup cooked meat (beef, chicken, or pork), shredded
– 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 12 empanadas. Preparation time is around 30 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 25 minutes, totaling about 55 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each empanada (approximately 100g) contains about 250 calories, 12g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add diced butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add cold water to form a dough.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. In a skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
6. Add the shredded meat, cumin, and paprika; mix well.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
8. Cut dough into circles (about 5 inches in diameter).
9. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
10. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
11. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
12. Brush each empanada with beaten egg and place on a baking sheet.
13. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the meat with vegetables for a vegetarian version, or use cheese for a cheesy delight. Gluten-free flour can also be used for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Empanadas pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or salsa. They can also be served with a dipping sauce like chimichurri for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Ensure the dough is chilled before rolling out.
– Do not overfill the empanadas; excess filling can cause them to burst.
– Seal the edges tightly to prevent leakage during baking.
– Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to avoid sticking.
– Avoid rolling the dough too thin to maintain structure.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different fillings to cater to your taste.
– Allow the filling to cool before adding it to the dough.
– Use a fork to create decorative edges on the empanadas.
– Double the recipe and freeze extras for later enjoyment.
FAQs
What are empanadas typically filled with?
Empanadas can be filled with a wide range of ingredients, including meats, vegetables, cheese, or even fruits for a sweet treat. The filling can vary by region and personal preference.
How can I make my empanadas crispy?
To achieve a crispy texture, ensure the dough is rolled out evenly and not too thick. Baking at the right temperature and using an egg wash can also enhance crispiness.
Can I fry empanadas instead of baking them?
Yes, empanadas can be fried for a different texture. Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet and fry until golden brown, ensuring they are cooked through.
How do I know when the empanadas are done?
Empanadas are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature to ensure the filling is heated through.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough can save time. Just make sure to follow the instructions for thawing and rolling as needed.
Conclusion
Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With this recipe, you can create your own flavorful variations that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
Empanadas Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 cup cooked meat beef, chicken, or pork, shredded
- 1/2 cup onions finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell peppers diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg for egg wash
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add diced butter and mix until crumbly.
- Gradually add cold water to form a dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
- Add the shredded meat, cumin, and paprika; mix well.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut dough into circles (about 5 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
