Delicious homemade empanadas filled with savory or sweet ingredients, perfect for a snack or main meal. These flaky pastries can be baked or fried and customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
For the Filling (Savory Example):
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
For Sweet Filling (Optional):
- 1 cup diced apples or guava paste
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, water, and vinegar. Gradually add this mixture to the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Make the Filling:
- Savory: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add the meat, spices, and bell peppers, cooking until fully browned. Let cool.
- Sweet: Combine diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over low heat until softened. Let cool.
- Assemble the Empanadas:
- Roll out the chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 4-6 inch circles.
- Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges with a fork.
- Cook the Empanadas:
- Baked: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush empanadas with an egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Fried: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry empanadas for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden.
- Serve:
- Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as is!
Let me know if you’d like to customize this recipe further!