Chilean Empanadas

Chilean Empanadas Recipe - Authentic and Flavorful

Region / culture: Chile | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 24 empanadas

Introduction

Chilean Empanadas are a popular dish in Chile, typically enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. These delicious turnovers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, vegetables, and spices, then baked until golden brown. They are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings, and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Empanadas have a long history in Chile, dating back to the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. The word "empanada" comes from the Spanish verb "empanar," which means to wrap or coat in bread. Over the years, Chileans have put their own unique twist on the traditional empanada recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create a dish that is distinctly Chilean.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
0.5 lb (227 g) lean ground beef
0.5 green bell pepper, chopped
2 tbsp chopped garlic
0.33 cup chopped raisins
0.25 cup chopped pimento stuffed
1.5 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp flour
1.75 tsp allspice
1 tsp cumin
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup grated monterey jack cheese
0.33 cup chopped cilantro
2 (12 oz (340 g)) packages refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water

How to prepare

Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat.
Add beef, bell pepper, and garlic.
Cook until the beef loses its pink color and the vegetables begin to soften, about 6 minutes.
Add raisins and the next 6 ingredients, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Mix in cheese and cilantro.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Roll out one biscuit on a lightly floured surface to a 4-inch circle.
Brush half of the dough with egg wash.
Place 1 rounded tablespoon of filling on the dough.
Fold over to create a half circle and press the edges to seal.
Using a fork, crimp the edges.
Place on a large baking sheet.
Brush with egg wash.
Bake until golden brown, about 12 minutes.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans.
Add diced olives or hard-boiled eggs to the filling for extra flavor.
Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as paprika, oregano, or parsley, to customize the flavor of the empanadas.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the filling until it thickens, as this will help prevent the empanadas from becoming soggy.

- Brushing the dough with egg wash before baking will give the empanadas a beautiful golden color.

- Make sure to seal the edges of the empanadas tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Chilean Empanadas are best served hot, straight from the oven. They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or appetizer, or paired with a side salad or salsa for a more complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure that the empanadas bake evenly, make sure to space them out on the baking sheet and rotate the pan halfway through cooking.

- For a crispier crust, brush the empanadas with melted butter before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

- Feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer in the filling, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the empanadas ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to bake the empanadas, simply assemble them and pop them in the oven.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the empanadas on a platter with a side of salsa or chimichurri sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Chilean Empanadas pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving them with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chilean Empanadas contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chilean Empanadas contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chilean Empanadas contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chilean Empanadas contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chilean Empanadas are a good source of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Chilean Empanadas contain wheat, dairy, and eggs.

Summary

Chilean Empanadas are a delicious and satisfying dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chilean Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty snack, these savory turnovers are sure to impress. With a flavorful filling and a crispy crust, Chilean Empanadas are a true crowd-pleaser.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I remember it like it was yesterday, the scent of spices wafting through the air as I watched my grandmother, Abuela Maria, expertly fold the dough around the filling for her famous Chilean Empanadas.

Abuela Maria was a master in the kitchen, and her empanadas were always a hit at family gatherings. Everyone would eagerly await the moment when she would bring out a fresh batch from the oven, the golden crust glistening with a hint of melted butter.

I had always admired my grandmother's culinary skills, and I knew that I wanted to learn how to make her empanadas. So, one day, I asked her if she would teach me her secret recipe. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed.

We spent hours in the kitchen that day, with Abuela Maria patiently guiding me through each step of the process. She showed me how to make the dough from scratch, explaining the importance of using just the right amount of water to achieve the perfect consistency.

As we worked, she shared stories of her own childhood in Chile, where empanadas were a staple in every household. She told me about the different variations of the dish, from the traditional beef filling to the more exotic seafood version that was popular in coastal regions.

I listened intently, soaking up every bit of knowledge that she imparted. I could see the love and passion that she poured into her cooking, and it inspired me to do the same.

By the end of the day, we had a tray full of beautifully shaped empanadas ready to be baked. As I watched them cook in the oven, the anticipation grew within me. I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor.

Finally, the timer beeped, and we pulled the steaming hot empanadas out of the oven. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that this moment would stay with me forever.

I took a bite of the warm, flaky pastry, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The savory beef filling, seasoned with a mix of spices that Abuela Maria had carefully selected, was perfection. I closed my eyes, savoring every delicious morsel.

Abuela Maria looked at me with pride in her eyes, her wrinkled hands patting mine affectionately. "You have done well, mi amor," she said softly. "You have learned the art of making Chilean empanadas."

From that day on, I became the designated empanada maker in our family. I would spend hours in the kitchen, recreating Abuela Maria's recipe with my own little twists and additions. Each batch was a labor of love, a tribute to the woman who had taught me everything I knew about cooking.

As the years passed, I continued to perfect my empanadas, experimenting with different fillings and flavors. I even started to teach my own children the art of making this beloved dish, passing down the tradition from generation to generation.

And so, the recipe for Chilean Empanadas became a cherished part of our family history, a symbol of love, connection, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones we hold dear. And every time I make them, I am reminded of my dear Abuela Maria, who will forever be my inspiration in the kitchen.