Irresistible Empanadas Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a perfectly cooked empanada, the crispy golden crust giving way to a burst of savory filling. Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors and textures that can transport you to a bustling street market or a cozy family gathering. The aroma wafts through the air, promising comfort and satisfaction with every mouthful, making it hard to resist.

Growing up, my grandmother would whip up her famous empanadas every Sunday, filling the house with warmth and laughter. It was always an event—friends and family gathered around the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting their turn to taste those little pockets of joy. Whether it was a rainy day or a sunny afternoon, empanadas were our go-to dish; they were simply irresistible.

I still remember the delighted squeals from my friends when I brought a batch to school; they practically inhaled them.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your empanada dough; opt for unbleached for better texture.

• Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for flakiness; it makes all the difference in your crust.

• Warm Water: Mix with flour to bring the dough together; warm water helps it knead easier.

• Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavor; don’t skip this step—it’s key!

• Eggs: Use one egg for brushing on top to achieve that lovely golden color before baking.

• Your Favorite Filling: Options include spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables. Get creative!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add warm water until dough forms. Knead briefly until smooth.

Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows it to rest and become easier to roll out later.

Make the Filling: Cook your chosen filling in a pan over medium heat until fully cooked through and aromatic. Let it cool slightly before assembling.

Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick—aim for thin but not transparent.

Assemble Empanadas: Use a round cutter to create circles from rolled dough. Place about one tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal tightly.

Bake or Fry Your Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. Place empanadas on a lined baking sheet and brush with beaten egg for color. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it! A delightful array of homemade empanadas ready to be enjoyed by all. Feel free to experiment with different fillings—each version tells its own delicious story!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sauté your filling first, then prepare the dough while it cools. Once ready, roll out, fill, and bake or fry until golden brown for the best texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap proteins or add spices to personalize your empanadas. Cheese lovers might enjoy adding a creamy layer of cheese for extra richness.

Storing & Reheating

Store uncooked empanadas in an airtight container for up to three days. Bake or fry from frozen for a quick snack anytime!

I remember the first time I made empanadas for my friends; they devoured them in minutes! Their smiles reminded me why I love cooking—sharing joy through food is truly special.

FAQ

Can I make empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze them before cooking for convenient snacking later.

What type of meat is best for empanadas?

Ground beef or chicken work well, but feel free to get creative with vegetables!

How can I achieve crispy empanada crust?

Ensure your oil is hot enough when frying for that perfect crispy texture without sogginess.

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Empanadas

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Empanadas are a delicious culinary treasure, featuring a crispy golden crust filled with savory goodness. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a comforting snack, these empanadas offer endless filling possibilities—from spiced meats to creamy cheeses. Plus, they freeze beautifully, ensuring you have a tasty treat ready whenever you need it!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Latin American

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 cup filling of your choice (meat, cheese, or vegetables)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms. Knead briefly until smooth.
2. Chill the Dough: Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Make the Filling: Cook your chosen filling in a pan over medium heat until done; let cool slightly.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Divide dough into small portions and roll each to about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Assemble Empanadas: Cut circles from the dough, place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center, fold over, and crimp edges with a fork.
6. Bake or Fry: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 empanada (70g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg