Empanadas are one of those foods that make every occasion just a little bit better. These pockets of flaky pastry are filled with anything from beef to chocolate. Originating in Spain and popularized throughout Latin America, empanadas have become a beloved comfort food worldwide. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb empanar, meaning “to wrap in bread,” which perfectly describes these handheld pies.
Empanadas deserve a place at every table, whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or Día de los Muertos. Here’s everything you need to know about these delightful filled pastries.
Delicious in Its Simplicity
While recipes vary from country to country, the essence of an empanada remains the same: dough wrapped around a flavorful filling, then baked or fried until crispy and golden. In Argentina, you’ll find empanadas stuffed with beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs, and olives. In the Philippines, they’re often filled with chicken and vegetables. Meanwhile, sweet versions from Mexico or the Caribbean might feature guava and cheese or pumpkin spice filling, a real treat for dessert lovers and perfect for Thanksgiving!
Add Empanadas to Your Holiday Feast
If you’re looking for something new to add your Thanksgiving spread, empanadas are the perfect choice. Making empanadas at home is surprisingly easy. To start, you’ll need two main components: the dough and the filling. For the dough, mix flour, salt, butter (or lard), and a bit of water until the mixture comes together in a smooth, soft ball. Let it rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. While the dough chills, prepare your filling, whether that’s seasoned ground beef with diced potatoes, shredded chicken with peppers, or even a vegetarian mix of beans and cheese. You can also make dessert empanadas with sweet fillings.
Once ready, roll out the dough and cut it into circles about four to six inches in diameter. Spoon a small amount of filling into the center of each circle, fold it over to form a half-moon, and press the edges together. Crimp the edges with a fork or twist them for a traditional look. Brush each empanada with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish. Bake them at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, or fry them in hot oil until crisp.
Treat Yourself to Empanadas at Rice & Beans 603
As simple as it may be to make empanadas at home, there’s nothing quite like a hot and fresh one made by a pro. When you visit Rice & Beans 603, you can try our beef or chicken empanadas and experience the delight for yourself.