Fried Empanadas are a culinary delight that captures the essence of Latin American comfort food. The crispy, golden dough gives way to a savory filling made of spiced ground beef, sweet raisins, and tender hard-cooked eggs. Every bite is a harmony of textures and flavors, blending the richness of the beef with the subtle sweetness of the raisins.
Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these empanadas are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Serve them with a side of chimichurri or your favorite dipping sauce for an added burst of flavor. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, Fried Empanadas are sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 cup shortening
- ¾ cup water
Ingredients For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
Ingredients For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in shortening using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Form into a ball, flatten slightly, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour. - Make the Filling:
While the dough chills, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until tender, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef, paprika, cumin, pepper, and salt. Cook and stir until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then stir in raisins and vinegar. Cover and refrigerate until cooled, about 1 hour. Once cooled, stir in the chopped hard-cooked eggs. - Shape the Empanadas:
Divide the chilled dough into twenty-four 2-inch balls. Roll each ball on a floured surface into a thin circle. Spoon a small amount of filling onto the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal. - Fry the Empanadas:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 365°F (180°C). Fry the empanadas in batches, 1 to 2 at a time, until golden brown, about 2 ½ minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. - Serve:
Serve hot and enjoy these crispy, flavorful empanadas as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 24 empanadas
Fried Empanadas: A Golden, Savory Delight
Fried empanadas are a classic Latin American dish loved for their crispy golden crust and flavorful filling. This versatile recipe is perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main course. The dough is flaky and tender, while the filling—a mix of spiced ground beef, raisins, and hard-cooked eggs—offers a delightful combination of savory and sweet. Frying them to perfection gives them a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with their juicy interior.
This guide will dive deep into everything you need to know about fried empanadas: from ingredients and variations to tips for success and serving suggestions, ensuring your website article is both informative and engaging.
Why Fried Empanadas Are a Must-Try
Empanadas are a symbol of culinary creativity, with endless variations across different cultures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping, or simply craving comfort food, fried empanadas are a crowd-pleaser that can be tailored to your taste preferences.
- Texture Perfection: The fried dough delivers a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling.
- Flavor Balance: The savory ground beef, sweet raisins, and richness of the eggs create a perfect harmony of flavors.
- Versatile and Portable: These hand-held pockets of deliciousness are ideal for on-the-go meals, picnics, or as a party snack.
- Customizable: From vegetarian options to spicy fillings, empanadas can cater to any dietary need or flavor preference.
Breaking Down the Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Flour and Shortening: All-purpose flour forms the base of the dough, while shortening ensures it’s tender and flaky. If you prefer, butter can be used as an alternative for a richer flavor.
- Water: Gradually added to bring the dough together without making it too sticky. Cold water works best to maintain the dough’s structure.
- Salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor and balances the richness of the shortening.
For the Filling:
- Ground Beef: The star of the filling, seasoned with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper for a bold, aromatic taste.
- Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
- Raisins: These little bursts of sweetness contrast beautifully with the savory beef, a hallmark of traditional empanadas.
- Hard-Cooked Eggs: Chopped eggs add richness and a tender texture to the filling.
- Vinegar: Provides a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors and balance the richness.
For Frying:
- Vegetable Oil: Ideal for deep-frying, as it provides an even, golden crust without imparting strong flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Empanadas
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Form into a ball, flatten slightly, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions until tender.
- Add ground beef, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and crumbly, then drain excess grease.
- Stir in raisins and vinegar, then refrigerate the mixture until cooled. Stir in chopped hard-cooked eggs before assembling.
- Assemble the Empanadas:
- Divide the chilled dough into 24 small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for added security and a decorative touch.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 365°F (180°C).
- Fry the empanadas in small batches, 1 to 2 at a time, until golden brown, about 2 ½ minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Empanadas
- Keep the Dough Chilled: Cold dough is easier to work with and fries better, maintaining its structure and flakiness.
- Seal the Edges Well: Ensuring the edges are properly sealed prevents the filling from leaking during frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 365°F (180°C) for consistent cooking.
- Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can make it difficult to seal the empanadas and may cause them to burst during frying.
Serving Suggestions
Fried empanadas are incredibly versatile and pair well with various sides and sauces:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with chimichurri, salsa verde, or spicy aioli for an added flavor boost.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad, black beans, or a tangy slaw for a balanced meal.
- Drinks: Complement the dish with a cold beer, a fruity sangria, or even a refreshing lemonade.
Creative Variations of Fried Empanadas
- Vegetarian Empanadas: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a plant-based option.
- Cheese Lovers: Fill the empanadas with a mix of shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and queso fresco for a gooey, cheesy treat.
- Sweet Empanadas: Swap the savory filling for fruit preserves, dulce de leche, or Nutella to create a dessert version.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the beef filling for a kick of heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the fried empanadas to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
- Reheating: Reheat cooked empanadas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Nutritional Information
Each empanada contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
While fried empanadas are a treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For a lighter version, consider baking them instead of frying.
The Cultural Significance of Empanadas
Empanadas are a staple across Latin America, with variations in every region. They originated in Spain and were brought to the Americas during the colonial era. Each country adds its own unique twist, using local ingredients and flavors to make them their own. From the Argentine empanadas with olives and potatoes to the Caribbean versions with seafood, these hand pies tell a story of cultural exchange and adaptation.
Conclusion
Fried empanadas are a culinary treasure that combines bold flavors, crispy textures, and endless versatility. Whether you stick to the classic beef and raisin filling or experiment with your own variations, these golden delights are sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even as a snack, they offer a little piece of Latin American tradition in every bite.
Invite your readers to try their hand at making these savory hand pies, and encourage them to share their creations. With this recipe and its customizable options, fried empanadas will quickly become a favorite in any kitchen!