Classic Homemade Empanadas

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Introduction

Empanadas are golden, flaky pastries stuffed with savory or sweet fillings, beloved in Latin America, Spain, and even parts of North Africa. The name comes from the Spanish word empanar, meaning “to wrap or coat in bread.” These hand pies can be filled with meat, vegetables, cheese, or even fruit, making them one of the most versatile comfort foods in the world. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or just a cozy snack, empanadas deliver warm, hearty flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups (450 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup (120 ml) cold water
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Filling (Beef & Vegetable Classic):

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or chicken, pork, or turkey)
  • ½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
  • ½ cup green olives, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • ¼ cup beef broth or water

For Assembly:

  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • Flour for dusting

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold butter with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
  3. Add the egg, water, and vinegar, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. Knead gently for 2–3 minutes, form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and soft.
  3. Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart until browned.
  4. Mix in bell pepper, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour in broth, simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat and fold in olives and hard-boiled eggs. Let it cool.

Step 3: Shape the Empanadas

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out dough on a floured surface, about ⅛-inch thick.
  3. Cut out 5–6 inch circles (use a bowl as a guide).
  4. Place 2 tbsp filling in the center of each circle.
  5. Fold in half, pressing edges together. Seal with a fork or pinch into a rope design.
  6. Brush tops with beaten egg.

Step 4: Bake or Fry

  • Bake: Place on parchment-lined tray, bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Fry (optional): Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

History

Empanadas trace their origins back to Galicia, Spain, where large savory pies called empanadas gallegas were popular. Spanish colonizers spread them to Latin America, where each country gave them a unique twist: Argentina’s beef-filled empanadas, Chile’s seafood versions, Colombia’s cornmeal crusts, and Mexico’s sweet dessert empanadas. Today, empanadas symbolize sharing, family, and celebration.

Benefits

  • Versatility: Can be stuffed with meat, veggies, or sweet fillings.
  • Meal on the Go: Perfect for picnics, school lunches, or travel.
  • Customizable: Easily made vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.
  • Nutritious: Balanced with protein, carbs, and fats

Nutrition (Per Empanada – Approximate)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbs: 22 g
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Fiber: 2 g

Conclusion

Golden, flaky, and filled with delicious savory goodness, empanadas are more than just a snack—they’re a cultural treasure enjoyed worldwide. Whether you bake them for a healthier version or fry them for indulgence, empanadas are guaranteed to be a hit.

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