Imagine biting into a golden, crispy empanada, its flaky crust giving way to a warm, savory filling that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and beckoning you closer to this delightful dish that always seems to bring smiles and happy sighs. Empanadas are not just food; they are little pockets of joy that transport you to sunny gatherings and joyous celebrations.
I remember the first time I attempted making an empanadas recipe at home—it was a culinary expedition filled with laughter, flour fights, and even a few questionable folding techniques. But the blissful experience of sharing these treats with friends made it all worthwhile, turning an ordinary evening into a festive occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This empanadas recipe is simple enough for kitchen novices yet impressive enough for entertaining
- The flavors can be easily customized based on what you have on hand
- With their golden, flaky crust and mouthwatering fillings, they look as good as they taste
- Perfect for any occasion—snack time, parties, or cozy dinners at home!
I still chuckle when I think about my uncle’s face when he took his first bite; his eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Choose high-quality flour for a flakier dough that holds together beautifully.
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Butter: Unsalted butter works best for controlling the saltiness in your empanada dough.
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Salt: Just a pinch will enhance the flavors of your dough without overpowering it.
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Water: Ice-cold water helps create a tender texture in your dough.
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Ground Meat (Beef or Chicken): Use fresh meat seasoned well for maximum flavor in your filling.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to your filling.
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Garlic: Minced garlic brings out the best flavors in your savory mixture.
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Spices (Cumin or Paprika): These spices add warmth and complexity—feel free to experiment!
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Egg (for egg wash): An egg wash gives your empanadas that beautiful golden finish we all crave.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Dough: Begin by mixing flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water until the dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest while preparing the filling.
Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent. Add ground meat along with spices; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Assemble Empanadas: Roll out dough on a floured surface until thin. Use a round cutter to cut circles, then place about 1 tablespoon of filling in each circle.
Seal Those Flavors In!: Fold each empanada in half over the filling and press edges firmly with a fork to seal them tight—no one likes spills!
Bake or Fry Them Up!: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place sealed empanadas on greased baking sheets; brush with egg wash for that golden glow. Bake for about 25 minutes until they are perfectly golden-brown.
Enjoy devouring these delightful bites straight from the oven or allow them to cool slightly before serving!
This empanadas recipe is more than just food; it’s an experience that evokes memories and creates new ones around every table where it graces. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Empanadas are a delightful treat that can be filled with anything from savory meats to sweet fruits
- The flaky pastry and robust fillings create a symphony of flavors in every bite
- Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, they’re versatile and fun to make
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the dough and letting it chill while you prepare the filling. This way, the dough firms up for easier handling and baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional fillings for your favorites, like spicy chicken or even chocolate! Personalize them to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store uncooked empanadas in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat baked empanadas in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect empanada crust, ensure your butter is cold when mixing with flour
- A pinch of salt enhances flavor
- When sealing, press firmly to avoid spills during cooking
I remember making my first batch of empanadas with my grandmother; we laughed as half of them burst open! The joy was in sharing them with family, and that’s what truly matters.
FAQ
What type of meat works best for empanadas recipe?
Ground beef or chicken are popular choices, but feel free to experiment.
Can I make empanadas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day before and store them in the fridge.
How do I know when my empanadas are done?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside; this usually takes about 20 minutes at 375°F.
Crispy Empanadas
Indulge in the warmth of homemade empanadas with this simple and delightful recipe. Featuring a golden, flaky crust filled with savory ground meat, onions, and spices, these bites are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these empanadas are sure to bring smiles to your table. Easy to make and customizable to your taste, they offer a delicious culinary adventure that evokes fond memories.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup ice-cold water
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin or paprika
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually mix in ice-cold water until dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer dough to a floured surface; knead gently for about 5 minutes. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest.
- Prepare Filling: Sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add ground meat and spices; cook until browned.
- Assemble Empanadas: Roll out dough thinly and cut into circles. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling on each circle.
- Seal: Fold empanadas over filling and press edges firmly with a fork.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place on greased baking sheets, brush with egg wash, and bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada (85g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
