Sure! Here’s a complete recipe for you that includes an introduction, ingredients, methods, history, and more. I’ll assume you’re referring to a pastry or pie-like dish based on your description, so I’ll create a recipe for Homemade Empanadas—flaky, delicious, and easy to love by both kids and adults!
Homemade Empanadas: Flaky, Delicious, and Fun to Eat!
Introduction: Empanadas are a beloved pastry that can be found across Latin America, Spain, and even the Philippines. These golden, hand-held treats are filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. The key to a perfect empanada is its crispy, flaky crust, which forms the perfect base for any filling, whether it’s meat, cheese, vegetables, or even fruit.
This homemade version is sure to impress with its light, flaky crust and a rich, flavorful filling that will delight the whole family. My husband even claimed that these were the best thing I’ve ever made—and the kids devoured them. It’s a recipe that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- ½ cup cold water (add more if necessary)
- 1 tbsp white vinegar (this helps with flakiness)
For the Filling (Savory Version – Ground Beef & Veggies):
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large potato, boiled and mashed
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional, for a sweet contrast)
- 1 egg, hard-boiled and chopped (optional, for added texture)
For the Sweet Filling (optional variation):
- 1 cup apple pie filling or mixed berries (for a fruity option)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Cinnamon, to taste
Instructions:
For the Dough:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
- Add the vinegar and then gradually pour in cold water, mixing with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Add more water as needed, a tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
For the Filling:
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, and chili powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the mashed potato, olives, raisins, and hard-boiled egg (if using), mixing everything together well.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Assembling the Empanadas:
- Roll Out the Dough:
- After chilling, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough.
- Fill the Empanadas:
- Place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it can cause the empanada to burst during baking.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
History of Empanadas:
Empanadas have a rich history that dates back centuries, originating in Spain and spreading throughout Latin America and the world during the colonial era. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb empanar, meaning “to bread” or “to coat with bread.” Empanadas were traditionally made by encasing meat, fish, or vegetables in a dough, making them easy to carry and perfect for travel. Over time, the filling options expanded to include sweets, such as fruit or chocolate, and they became a staple food in many countries, from Argentina to the Philippines.
Empanadas vary widely by region. In Argentina, for example, they’re often filled with a combination of beef, onions, and hard-boiled eggs, while in Spain, they might feature seafood or ham. Each region has its own unique twist on this beloved pastry.
Methods & Variations:
- For a Crispier Texture: You can deep-fry the empanadas instead of baking them. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the empanadas for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Sweet Empanadas: For a dessert version, swap the savory filling for a sweet one. You can use fruit fillings like apple, peach, or berries. A sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar before baking adds an extra touch of sweetness.
- Vegetarian Options: Replace the meat with a variety of vegetables like spinach, cheese, and mushrooms, or even a hearty bean filling for a plant-based version.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with chimichurri, a tangy tomato salsa, or a creamy avocado dip to enhance the flavors.
Conclusion:
Empanadas are versatile, delicious, and fun to make, and they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. With their flaky, buttery crust and savory or sweet fillings, they’re sure to become a household favorite—just like they are in our family!
Lovers of Empanadas:
Empanadas have been embraced by cultures all over the world. From South America to Spain, from the Philippines to the U.S., they bring people together around the table. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, they always leave everyone satisfied. The best part? The possibilities are endless! What filling will you choose next?
Enjoy the recipe, and feel free to customize it based on your family’s preferences. Empanadas are truly a dish that everyone can enjoy, no matter their age or taste buds!