Salvadoran Turnovers

Salvadoran Turnovers Recipe - Delicious and Authentic

Region / culture: El Salvador | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Salvadoran turnovers, also known as empanadas, are a popular dish in El Salvador and other Latin American countries. These delicious pastries are typically filled with a savory mixture of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and beans, and are then fried until crispy and golden brown. In this recipe, we will be making Salvadoran turnovers filled with a tasty combination of mashed chickpeas, diced potatoes, green beans, and pork.

History

Salvadoran turnovers have a long history in El Salvador and are a beloved traditional dish in the country. They are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, and are commonly served at family gatherings and celebrations. The origins of the recipe can be traced back to Spanish and Indigenous influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful pastry that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

0.5 cup mashed chickpeas
0.5 cup diced cooked potatoes
0.5 cup cooked and chopped green beans
0.5 cup diced cooked pork
1 tbsp chopped onion
4 tbsp tomato paste
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredients up to 0.5 tsp salt and set aside.
2 cups of masa, which can be found in select grocery stores and Latin-American grocery stores
1 tsp salt
1.25 cups of lukewarm water
Oil for frying
In another medium-sized bowl, mix together masa and 1 tsp salt. Gradually add enough water while stirring constantly, until a stiff dough forms.
Divide the dough into 24 pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls under a damp towel.
Take one ball and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Flatten the dough using a flat plate, then remove the top plastic wrap.
Put a tablespoon of filling in the center of the dough and press it down.
Fold one part of the dough over the other, covering the filling and creating a crescent shape. Press the edges together and place the turnover under a damp towel.
Repeat the process with the remaining turnovers.

Variations

Try filling the turnovers with different combinations of ingredients such as cheese, chicken, or beans for a variety of flavors.
For a vegetarian option, omit the pork and add more vegetables or beans to the filling.
Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the turnovers to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the filling ingredients thoroughly before filling the turnovers to ensure that they are fully cooked once the turnovers are fried.

- Use a flat plate to flatten the dough for the turnovers to ensure that they are evenly shaped and cook evenly.

- Be sure to seal the edges of the turnovers tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

- Fry the turnovers in hot oil until they are crispy and golden brown on both sides.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Salvadoran turnovers hot with a side of salsa or hot sauce for dipping. They can also be enjoyed with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

When frying the turnovers, make sure to use enough oil to fully submerge them for even cooking and browning.

- Fry the turnovers in small batches to prevent overcrowding the pan and ensure that they cook evenly.

- Use a slotted spoon to remove the turnovers from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find masa, you can substitute with cornmeal mixed with water to form a dough.

- Feel free to customize the filling ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the turnovers ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and fry the turnovers. The dough can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the turnovers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of crema for an attractive presentation. You can also arrange them in a decorative pattern for a visually appealing display.

Pairing Recommendations

Salvadoran turnovers pair well with a variety of side dishes such as rice, beans, salad, or plantains. They also go well with a cold beer or a refreshing glass of horchata.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Salvadoran turnovers contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Salvadoran turnovers contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Salvadoran turnovers contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Salvadoran turnovers contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Salvadoran turnovers are a good source of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the masa dough and may contain allergens such as soy and nuts depending on the filling ingredients used.

Summary

Salvadoran turnovers are a delicious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option for a meal or snack.

Summary

Salvadoran turnovers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or meal. With a flavorful filling of mashed chickpeas, potatoes, green beans, and pork, these turnovers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Try making them at home with this easy and tasty recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Salvadoran Turnovers. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a talented cook, always experimenting with new recipes and flavors. As soon as I walked in, I could smell the delicious aromas wafting from the stove.

Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a bright smile. "I have a special treat for you today, mi amiga," she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I'm going to teach you how to make Salvadoran turnovers. They are a traditional dish in my homeland, and I know you will love them."

I watched as Maria gathered the ingredients for the turnovers – flour, water, salt, butter, and a filling of ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices. She began by making the dough, mixing the flour, water, and salt together until it formed a smooth and elastic ball. Then, she rolled out the dough into thin circles, spooned the filling onto one half, and folded the dough over to create a half-moon shape.

As Maria expertly crimped the edges of the turnovers and brushed them with egg wash, she shared the story of how she learned to make them. "I grew up watching my abuela make these turnovers in her kitchen," she said, her voice filled with nostalgia. "She would always make them for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays. I would sit at her feet, mesmerized by her skill and passion for cooking."

Maria's words resonated with me, stirring memories of my own grandmother and her love for cooking. I remembered how she would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching me her favorite recipes and sharing stories from her own childhood. It was in her kitchen that I learned the art of cooking – how to measure ingredients, mix flavors, and create delicious meals that brought joy to those around me.

As the turnovers baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, Maria and I sat down to enjoy a cup of coffee and catch up on each other's lives. I savored every bite of the crispy, golden turnovers, savoring the flavors of the savory filling and flaky pastry.

After our meal, Maria handed me a handwritten recipe card for the Salvadoran turnovers. "Keep this close, mi amiga," she said, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Pass it down to your own grandchildren one day, and share the joy of cooking with them."

That day, I left Maria's kitchen feeling inspired and grateful for the gift of her friendship and culinary wisdom. I knew that I would cherish the recipe for Salvadoran turnovers and the memories of learning how to make them with Maria for years to come.

Over the years, I have continued to make Salvadoran turnovers for my family and friends, adding my own twist to the recipe with different fillings and seasonings. Each time I make them, I am reminded of that special day in Maria's kitchen and the bond we share through our love of cooking.

As I pass down the recipe for Salvadoran turnovers to my own grandchildren, I hope to instill in them the same passion for cooking that was passed down to me by my grandmother and dear friend Maria. Cooking is more than just preparing a meal – it is a way to connect with loved ones, preserve traditions, and create lasting memories that will be treasured for generations to come.