Empanada with tomatoes, peppers, and tuna

Empanada with Tomatoes, Peppers, and Tuna - A Deliciously Easy Recipe

When it comes to dishes that bring smiles to faces and fill the home with delightful aromas, empanada is undoubtedly one of the most beloved options. This recipe for empanada with tomatoes, peppers, and tuna is not only delicious but also a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. With a crispy crust and a savory filling, it’s ideal for both a family lunch and a dinner with friends. Let’s explore together how to create this delight step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 380 g flour
- 180 g butter (preferably at room temperature, cut into cubes)
- 5 tablespoons cold water (from the fridge)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 large onion (peeled and finely chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (washed and cut into strips)
- 1 can of tomatoes in juice
- 1 large can of tuna in oil (drained and flaked)
- 3 tablespoons oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For brushing:
- 1 egg (beaten)

A Brief History of Empanada

Empanada has become a symbol of gastronomy, with deep roots in international culinary traditions. Over time, it has evolved from a simple stuffed pastry to a delicacy enjoyed worldwide. Each culture has adapted the recipe according to local ingredients, but the essence remains the same: a savory crust with diverse fillings that can range from meat to vegetables, cheese, and even fruits. The empanada with tomatoes, peppers, and tuna is a perfect combination of ingredients that harmonize beautifully.

Preparation Techniques

Making the Dough

1. Sifting the Flour: In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder to eliminate any lumps and achieve a fine texture. This is an essential step to ensure a uniform and light dough.

2. Creating a Well: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the butter cubes, salt, sugar, and egg. These ingredients need to be well combined to achieve a tender dough.

3. Mixing: Using your fingertips, mix the ingredients in the well with the flour until you get a homogeneous consistency. Timing is crucial here; do not overwork the dough to prevent it from becoming elastic.

4. Adding Water: Finally, add the cold water gradually and continue to knead gently until the dough comes together well. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour. This step will help achieve a flaky crust.

Preparing the Filling

5. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the pepper strips and continue to sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vibrant color of the peppers will add an attractive visual touch to the final dish.

6. Adding the Tomatoes: Stir in the can of tomatoes in juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until the sauce reduces and thickens. This step is essential to ensure a flavorful and delicious filling.

7. Incorporating the Tuna: Finally, add the drained and flaked tuna. Mix gently and let it cook for another minute, then set aside to cool.

Assembling the Empanada

8. Dividing the Dough: After an hour, take the dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. This will ensure two perfect sheets for the empanada.

9. Rolling the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough into a thin sheet. Make sure the sheets are of equal size for even overlapping.

10. Filling: Place the cooled filling on one sheet of dough, leaving edges free to seal the empanada. This step is crucial; the filling should not be too wet to avoid a soggy crust.

11. Covering: Place the second sheet of dough over the filling. Use a fork to press the edges, ensuring they are well sealed. This will not only seal the filling but also add a nice detail.

12. Brushing: Brush the empanada with the beaten egg to achieve a golden and shiny crust after baking. This will add an appetizing look.

Baking

13. Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the empanada on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy. The aromas will blend, and the entire house will be filled with a delicious scent.

Helpful Tip

For a personal touch, you can add some fresh herbs to the filling, such as basil or oregano, to enhance the flavor. Additionally, a dash of chili sauce can provide a spicy kick, perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their food.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This empanada offers a balance of protein and carbohydrates, thanks to the tuna and vegetables. While exact calorie counts may vary depending on portion size, one empanada can contain around 300-400 calories. It is a good option for a main meal, considering the nutrient intake from vegetables and fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of fish? Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with salmon or sardines, depending on your personal preferences.
- What other fillings can I try? You can experiment with cheese and spinach, ground meat, or even sweet fillings like apples with cinnamon.
- How can I store the empanada? If you have leftover empanada, you can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

The empanada with tomatoes, peppers, and tuna pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or an avocado salsa. Additionally, a cold beer or a dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal, adding a touch of elegance.

Conclusion

This recipe for empanada with tomatoes, peppers, and tuna is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to use your imagination and experiment with various fillings to make this recipe truly unique. Bon appétit!