Pork Empanadas

Pork Empanadas Recipe - Traditional Argentinean Dish

Region / culture: Argentina | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Pork empanadas are a delicious and savory pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of minced pork, vegetables, and spices. These hand-held treats are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.

History

Empanadas are a popular dish in many Latin American countries, with each region putting its own unique twist on the recipe. The concept of a filled pastry can be traced back to Spain, where empanadas were originally made with seafood or meat fillings. The dish made its way to Latin America during the colonial period and has since become a beloved staple in the region.

Ingredients

For the dough

400 g/14 oz plain flour
1 tsp salt
175 g/6 oz butter
1 - 3 tbsp chilled water

For the filling

325 g/-12 oz minced pork
1 onion, chopped
1 capsicum (sweet pepper), chopped
50 g/2 oz raisins
1 tbsp capers, chopped if large
10 pimento stuffed , chopped
1 hard boiled egg, chopped
1 bay leaf
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
2 to 4 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp freshly chopped oregano
0.5 tsp tabasco sauce
1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
salt and pepper
Beaten egg to glaze

How to prepare

Place the flour in a large mixing bowl and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Gradually add the water and mix with a knife until the pastry starts to come together. Use your hands to form the pastry into a ball, then cover it with clingfilm and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Heat the oil in a frying pan and lightly brown the pork on all sides.
Add the remaining ingredients, mix well, and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Set aside until ready to assemble the empanadas.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) or Gas Mark 6. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 3 mm (0.13 inches), then cut it into 8 circles using a plate or small saucepan lid.
Divide the filling among the pastry circles, brush the edges of the pastry with a little water, fold them over to create semi-circles, and firmly press the edges together with a fork to ensure they are well sealed.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake for 20–30 minutes until they turn golden brown.

Variations

Try using ground beef or chicken instead of pork for a different flavor.
Add cheese, olives, or jalapenos to the filling for a spicy kick.
Make a vegetarian version by using a mixture of beans, corn, and vegetables as the filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to ensure a flaky and tender crust.

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

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as olives, cheese, or different types of meat.

Serving Suggestions

Pork empanadas can be served with a side salad, salsa, or guacamole for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure a flaky crust, make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out.

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

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have capers, you can use chopped green olives instead.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the empanadas ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. Store the assembled empanadas in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pork empanadas on a platter with a side of salsa and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pork empanadas pair well with a light and refreshing beer or a glass of red wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pork empanadas contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pork empanadas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of pork empanadas contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of pork empanadas contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pork empanadas are a good source of iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Pork empanadas contain wheat (gluten), eggs, and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Pork empanadas are a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious and satisfying option for a meal or snack.

Summary

Pork empanadas are a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a meal or snack. With a flaky crust and a flavorful filling, these hand-held treats are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air.

Maria was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of simmering pork filling for empanadas. The rich, savory smell made my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. Maria noticed my interest and beckoned me over to join her in the cooking process.

She explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The secret, she said, was in the combination of spices and the slow cooking process that allowed the flavors to meld together perfectly.

As we worked together to assemble the empanadas, Maria shared stories of her childhood spent in the kitchen with her grandmother. She described how they would spend hours preparing traditional dishes, using only the freshest ingredients and the most time-honored techniques.

I was mesmerized by her tales and the way she effortlessly moved around the kitchen, her hands deftly shaping the dough and filling the empanadas with the fragrant pork mixture. I could see the love and care she put into each step, and I knew that this recipe was something truly special.

After we had finished assembling the empanadas, Maria popped them into the oven to bake. As they cooked, the smell of flaky pastry and savory pork filled the kitchen, making my stomach rumble in anticipation.

When the empanadas were finally ready, we sat down at the table to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The first bite was a revelation - the tender pork, seasoned to perfection with a hint of spice and a touch of sweetness, was encased in a golden, flaky crust that melted in my mouth.

I couldn't believe how delicious they were, and I knew that I had to learn how to make them myself. Maria was more than happy to teach me, and over the next few weeks, she patiently guided me through the process, sharing tips and tricks that she had learned from her grandmother.

With each batch of empanadas I made, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I could see the joy on my family's faces as they savored the flavors of the pork filling and the crispy pastry, and I knew that this recipe would become a treasured tradition in our household.

As the years passed, I continued to make pork empanadas, adding my own twist with different herbs and spices. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the knowledge that had been handed down to me by Maria and her grandmother.

Now, whenever I make pork empanadas, I am transported back to that sunny day in Maria's kitchen, where the scent of spices and the sound of laughter filled the air. I am grateful for the memories and the stories that have been shared with me, and I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.