Empanada Recipe: Empanadas are a delightful and versatile dish enjoyed around the world. These delicious hand pies, stuffed with a variety of fillings, offer a perfect blend of flaky crust and savory or sweet center.
Originally from Spain, empanadas have traveled far and wide, becoming a beloved part of many cuisines.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun family cooking project, or just craving something delicious, making empanadas at home is easier than you think!
What Are Empanadas?
Empanadas are pastry turnovers, typically stuffed with meat, vegetables, cheese, or even sweet fillings like fruit or custard. Their name comes from the Spanish word empanar, meaning “to wrap in bread.” While they originated in Spain, empanadas have been embraced and adapted by countries like Argentina, the Philippines, and Colombia, each with unique twists.
Essential Ingredients for Empanadas
Here’s what you’ll need to make classic empanadas:
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Butter or lard
- Salt
- Water or milk
- Optional: egg yolk for added richness
For the Filling:
- Ground beef or chicken
- Onions and garlic
- Bell peppers
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Olives
- Spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano
Optional Fillings:
- Cheese and spinach
- Sweet corn and cream
- Apples and cinnamon for dessert empanadas
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Circular cutter (or a bowl to cut dough rounds)
- Baking sheet or frying pan
- Fork for sealing edges
- Parchment paper or oil for non-stick cooking
How to Make Empanada Dough
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter or lard until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add Liquid: Gradually add cold water or milk, mixing until the dough forms a cohesive ball. If desired, mix in an egg yolk for a richer dough.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out.
Pro Tip: For extra flaky crusts, handle the dough as little as possible and keep the ingredients cold.
Preparing the Filling
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in diced bell peppers, olives, and seasonings like cumin, paprika, and oregano. Simmer until flavors meld together.
- Cool the Filling: Allow the filling to cool completely before using it. Warm fillings can make the dough harder to handle.
Variations: For vegetarian empanadas, use a mix of spinach, cheese, and sautéed mushrooms. Sweet fillings like apple and cinnamon are perfect for dessert.
Assembling the Empanadas
- Roll Out the Dough: Dust your surface with flour and roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut Circles: Use a cutter or bowl to cut out rounds. Aim for 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Fill and Fold: Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal the Edges: Use a fork to crimp the edges or pinch them in a decorative braid pattern.
Pro Tip: Brush the edges with water or egg wash to ensure a secure seal.
Cooking Methods
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Frying:
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry empanadas in batches, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden.
Air Frying: For a healthier option, air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your empanadas warm with a variety of dipping sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or sour cream. Pair them with a fresh salad or a bowl of hearty soup for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Keep cooked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen by adding a few extra minutes.
- Reheating: Warm in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Empanada Variations Around the World
- Argentina: Beef, olives, and raisins with a hint of spice.
- Philippines: A sweeter dough filled with minced meat, vegetables, and sometimes cheese.
- Spain: Tuna or cod empanadas often served in large pie form.
FAQs about Empanada Recipe
What are empanadas?
Empanadas are a type of baked or fried turnover consisting of pastry and filling, common in Southern European, Latin American, and Filipino cultures. The name comes from the Spanish verb empanar, meaning to wrap or coat in bread.
What fillings can I use for empanadas?
You can fill empanadas with a variety of ingredients based on your preference. Common fillings include seasoned meat (beef, chicken, or pork), cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruit or dulce de leche.
Do I need special equipment to make empanadas?
No special equipment is needed. Basic kitchen tools like a rolling pin, a bowl for mixing, and a baking sheet or frying pan are sufficient. Empanada molds can be helpful but are not necessary.
Can I make empanadas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare empanadas ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking or frying. Alternatively, you can freeze them to keep longer and bake or fry straight from the freezer, adjusting cooking time as needed.
How do I prevent the empanada pastry from becoming soggy?
To prevent soggy pastry, ensure your filling is not too wet and allow it to cool before filling the pastry. Sealing the edges well and ensuring the oven or oil is at the correct temperature when cooking will also help keep the pastry crisp.
Are there any tips for achieving a perfect empanada crust?
For a golden and crisp crust, brush the tops of your empanadas with an egg wash before baking. If frying, make sure your oil is hot enough so that the empanadas sizzle as soon as they hit the oil, which helps to seal the crust quickly and prevent oil absorption.
Conclusion
Making empanadas is a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. Whether you prefer them baked or fried, savory or sweet, these versatile treats are sure to delight your taste buds. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy homemade empanadas that rival any bakery’s offerings!
