Empanadas are a type of pastry that originated in Latin America. These tasty treats are perfect for any occasion and are easy to make. In this article, we will explore the history of empanadas, how to make them, and some delicious filling ideas to try.
History of Empanadas
Empanaditas are a smaller version of the popular empanada, which originated in Spain. The empanada was brought to Latin America during the colonial period and quickly became a staple food in many countries. Empanaditas are a smaller and more manageable version of the empanada, making them perfect for parties or as a snack.
Types of Empanadas
Empanadas come in wide varieties, with different fillings and cooking methods. Here are some of the most popular types:
Argentinian Empanadas
Argentinian empanadas are perhaps the most famous type of empanadas. They are made with flaky dough and filled with beef, onions, olives, and raisins. The filling is seasoned with cumin, paprika, and chili powder, giving it a spicy and savory flavor. Argentinian empanadas are often baked in a wood-fired oven, giving them a crispy crust.
Chilean Empanadas
Chilean empanadas are typically larger than other types of empanadas and are filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, boiled eggs, and black olives. The filling is seasoned with cumin, paprika, and oregano, giving it a robust flavor. Chilean empanadas are traditionally baked in a clay oven.
Colombian Empanadas
Colombian empanadas are made with cornmeal dough filled with ground beef, potatoes, and onions. The filling is seasoned with cumin, paprika, and cilantro, giving it a fresh and spicy flavor. Colombian empanadas are typically deep-fried and served with a side of salsa.
Mexican Empanadas
Mexican empanadas are similar to Colombian empanadas but are made with wheat flour dough instead of cornmeal. The filling is often made with ground beef, chicken, or cheese and is seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Mexican empanadas are typically baked or fried and are often served with a side of guacamole.
How to Make Empanadas
Empanaditas are easy to make and require only a few ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make empanadas:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 egg
Filling of your choice
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the vegetable shortening and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the water and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Use a cookie cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles.
- Spoon a small amount of filling onto each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by crimping them with a fork.
- Beat the egg in a bowl and brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Filling Ideas for Empanadas
Empanadas can be filled with almost anything, making them a versatile treat. Here are some delicious filling ideas to try:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft.
- Add the cumin, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
- Spoon the filling onto the empanadas and bake as directed.
Chicken Empanadas:
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper.
- Cook until the vegetables are soft.
- Add the cooked chicken, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine.
- Spoon the filling onto the empanadas and bake as directed.
Cheese and Spinach Empanadas:
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mix the spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spoon the filling onto the empanadas and bake as directed.
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook until the apples are soft and caramelized.
- Spoon the filling onto the empanadas and bake as directed.
Tips for Making Empanadas at Home
Making empanadas at home is easy and fun. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Use a flaky dough recipe to give your empanadas a crispy crust.
- Don’t overfill your empanadas, or they may burst during cooking.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges of your empanadas to help them stay sealed.
- Brush your empanadas with egg wash before cooking to give them a golden-brown color.
- Experiment with different fillings and flavors to find your favorite empanada recipe.
FAQs
What is the origin of empanadas?
Empanaditas originated in Latin America as a smaller version of the empanada.
What are some popular fillings for empanadas?
Some popular fillings for empanadas include beef, chicken, cheese and spinach, and apple.
Are empanadas challenging to make?
No, empanadas are easy to make and require only a few ingredients.
Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes, empanadas can be frozen before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To bake, remove from the freezer and bake as directed.
What is the best way to reheat empanadas?
To reheat empanadas, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. With so many filling options, you can customize them to your liking. So why not give them a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills?
