Vegetarian Empanadas: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe for Beginners

There’s something wonderfully comforting about empanadas – those warm, golden pockets of pastry filled with delicious, savory fillings. I still remember the first time I made empanadas from scratch. I was a beginner cook, and the thought of making these handheld treats seemed like a daunting task. However, I soon realized how simple and satisfying it could be. The great thing about empanadas is their versatility – whether you’re craving a vegetarian version or prefer meat, there are endless ways to fill these pockets of goodness.

Print

This Vegetarian Empanada recipe is perfect for those who are starting out in the kitchen. With its straightforward steps, delicious ingredients, and a filling that’s healthy yet satisfying, you’ll be making empanadas like a pro in no time. And if you’re not a fan of vegetarian options, don’t worry – you can swap in chicken or beef for the filling! Let’s dive into the world of empanadas.

Why Vegetarian Empanadas Are Great for Beginners

Making empanadas is a great way to practice basic cooking skills like chopping, sautéing, and working with dough, but it’s also a fantastic way to develop your culinary creativity. This recipe is perfect for beginners because it involves simple, easy-to-find ingredients, with the option to make the dough from scratch or use pre-made dough to save time.

Plus, the vegetarian filling is easy to prepare, making it a great option for any cook trying to hone their skills. If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, substituting the beans for cooked chicken or beef is a simple adjustment that allows you to customize the flavor while still keeping things beginner-friendly.

The health benefits are another reason this recipe stands out. Vegetarian empanadas are filled with nutritious ingredients like vegetables and beans, which provide fiber and protein, while also being lower in fat than traditional meat-filled versions. And, with a few modifications to suit your personal preferences, these empanadas are an incredibly flexible dish that can easily cater to dietary needs.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before we start making the empanadas, let’s gather everything you’ll need. You can make your own dough if you want the full-from-scratch experience, but for beginner cooks, using pre-made dough will save you time and effort. Here’s what you’ll need for the filling and dough.

Empanada Dough Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup butter (cold and cut into cubes)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

Vegetarian Empanada Filling Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lentils or black beans (you can substitute with cooked chicken or beef)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (use any color you prefer)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, use a vegetarian cheese if desired)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions:

• For the beans: You can use black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Alternatively, use cooked chicken or ground beef to cater to a meat-eater’s preference.
• Cheese: If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, vegan cheese or no cheese at all is a great choice. You could also use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making your very own empanadas.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add butter: Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to mix the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Add egg: Crack the egg into the bowl and mix it into the flour-butter mixture.
4. Add water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to add too much water; you want the dough to be firm but not sticky.
5. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes, until smooth. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
6. Rest the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened.
2. Add spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, and oregano, stirring to coat the vegetables in the spices.
3. Add the beans or meat: Stir in your choice of beans or cooked chicken/beef. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Season: Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Cool the filling: Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool slightly before filling the empanadas.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a thin sheet, about 1/8-inch thick.
2. Cut dough rounds: Use a round cutter (or a small bowl) to cut out circles of dough. You want each circle to be around 4-5 inches in diameter.
3. Fill the dough: Place a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each dough circle. Add a sprinkle of cheese if you’re using it.
4. Fold and seal: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them together. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a more decorative touch.
5. Egg wash: Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of each empanada to give them a golden, shiny finish.

Step 4: Bake the Empanadas

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place on a baking sheet: Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching.
3. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your empanadas are done, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. You can pair them with a fresh salad, salsa, or a side of guacamole for extra flavor.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Troubleshooting the dough: If your dough is too crumbly, add a bit more ice water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle with flour.
• Filling options: If you’re using chicken or beef, make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the filling. Ground meat should be cooked through and crumbled.
• Don’t overfill: When adding the filling, don’t overstuff the empanadas, or they may break open while baking. A generous tablespoon is all you need for each empanada.
• Freezing tips: If you want to prepare the empanadas ahead of time, you can freeze them before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake them, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Empanadas are filling on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Side Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds a light, refreshing contrast to the crispy empanadas.
• Salsa and Guacamole: Classic sides like salsa or guacamole make perfect dips for your empanadas. You can also try a tangy sour cream sauce or chimichurri for a zesty kick.
• Rice or Beans: Serve your empanadas with a side of seasoned rice or extra black beans to round out the meal.

For leftovers, simply store your empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making vegetarian empanadas (or swapped in chicken or beef for a meaty version), you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful dish in your kitchen! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings, flavors, and dipping sauces. The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility – they’re perfect for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a make-ahead lunch.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience. Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any variations you’ve made to the recipe. Happy cooking, and enjoy your homemade empanadas!