Ya Gotta Empanada

Ya Gotta Empanada Recipe from Spain with Spanish Rice, Cheddar, Green Onions, and Black Olives

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 22 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ya Gotta Empanada is a delicious and savory dish that combines Spanish rice, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, and black olives all wrapped in a flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.

History

Empanadas are a popular dish in many Latin American countries, with each region having its own unique twist on the classic recipe. The origins of the empanada can be traced back to Spain, where it was introduced during the Moorish occupation. The word "empanada" comes from the Spanish verb "empanar," which means to wrap or coat in bread.

Ingredients

1 package (4 to 6 oz or 170 g) of spanish rice mix, prepared according to package directions
1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
1 cup (4 oz or 113 g) of shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup of sliced green onions
0.25 cup of chopped black olives
1 package (15 oz or 425 g) of refrigerated pie crusts

How to prepare

Combine rice, chicken, cheese, onions, and olives in a large bowl.
Spoon half of the rice mixture onto half of each pie crust. Fold the crust over the filling.
Seal and crimp the edges. Place them on a baking sheet.
Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 20 to 22 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Cut each empanada in half and serve immediately.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for ground beef or shredded pork.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- You can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences by adding different vegetables, meats, or cheeses.

- For a crispy crust, brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ya Gotta Empanada with a side salad or salsa for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own chicken.

- Substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for Ya Gotta Empanada ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ya Gotta Empanada on a platter with a drizzle of sour cream or guacamole on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Ya Gotta Empanada with a glass of sangria or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ya Gotta Empanada contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ya Gotta Empanada contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ya Gotta Empanada contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ya Gotta Empanada contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ya Gotta Empanada is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (pie crust), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Ya Gotta Empanada is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ya Gotta Empanada is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With a delicious filling wrapped in a flaky pie crust, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

. The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. Ya Gotta Empanada, as it was called, was a traditional dish from my mother's side of the family. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, and I was determined to learn how to make it just like my grandmother before me.

I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was just a young girl, watching my grandmother in her kitchen as she carefully prepared the ingredients for Ya Gotta Empanada. She moved with such grace and confidence, as if she had been making this dish her whole life. The aroma of the spices filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As I watched her mix the dough, I couldn't help but ask her where she had learned to make such a delicious dish. She smiled and told me that the recipe had been handed down from her own grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a family tradition, she said, and one that she was proud to pass on to me.

I watched as she rolled out the dough and filled it with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, and spices. She then sealed the empanadas with a fork, creating a beautiful pattern on the edges. Finally, she brushed them with an egg wash and popped them in the oven to bake.

As the empanadas baked, the smell filled the house, making my stomach growl in anticipation. When they were finally done, my grandmother took them out of the oven and placed them on a platter for us to enjoy. The first bite was pure bliss - the flaky crust, the savory filling, the perfect balance of flavors. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

From that day on, I was determined to learn how to make Ya Gotta Empanada just like my grandmother. I spent hours in the kitchen with her, watching and learning as she made batch after batch of the delicious dish. She taught me the secrets of the recipe - the perfect ratio of spices, the right amount of filling, the precise way to seal the empanadas.

It wasn't long before I was able to make Ya Gotta Empanada on my own. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment as I served them to my family and friends, watching their faces light up with delight. The recipe had become a part of me, a connection to my past and a way to honor my heritage.

Over the years, I have continued to make Ya Gotta Empanada for my own family. It has become a beloved tradition, one that we all look forward to on special occasions. The recipe has brought us together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As I look back on the day I first saw the recipe for Ya Gotta Empanada, I am grateful for the legacy that my grandmother passed down to me. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of where I come from and the love that has been shared through generations. Ya Gotta Empanada will always hold a special place in my kitchen, a reminder of the bond between past, present, and future.