Empanada Recipe

Empanadas are delightful pockets of flavor that originate from Latin American cuisine, cherished for their versatility and satisfying taste. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a casual lunch, or even a picnic, empanadas are a perfect choice. Here’s a guide to crafting these savory delights at home.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 egg
• ⅓ cup cold water
• For the Filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 lb ground beef or chicken (or any filling of your choice like cheese and spinach)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: olives, raisins, hard-boiled eggs (traditional in some recipes)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Beat the egg and add it to the flour mixture. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough comes together.
• Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

1. Make the Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
• Stir in garlic and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
• Add ground beef or chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
• Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.

1. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
• Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Add optional ingredients like olives or raisins if desired.
• Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork or by twisting and folding the edges decoratively.

1. Bake the Empanadas:

• Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish (optional).
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with a side of chimichurri sauce or your favorite salsa.

Tips for Success:

• Keep the Dough Cold: Cold dough is easier to work with and yields a flakier crust.
• Experiment with Fillings: Empanadas can be filled with a variety of ingredients—from traditional meats to vegetarian options like cheese and spinach.
• Make Ahead: Empanadas can be assembled and frozen before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Empanadas are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to explore flavors from different cultures. Whether you prefer them baked or fried, their crispy exterior and flavorful fillings are sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy making—and savoring—these delightful treats!