Mushroom Empanadas

Mushroom Empanadas: A Delight in Every Bite

Who doesn't love a savory snack that brings to mind joyful moments spent with loved ones? Mushroom empanadas are the perfect choice that combines a delicious, crispy crust with a rich, flavorful, and textured filling. Whether you're preparing them for a party, a family dinner, or simply to indulge your taste buds, these empanadas are the ideal solution.

The history of empanadas is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These mini pies were created to be easily transported and consumed, filled with various ingredients, from meat to vegetables and cheeses. They are a symbol of comfort cooking, bringing a sense of warmth and satisfaction.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients for the Dough:
- 300 g flour
- 200 g cold butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs (one for the filling, one for brushing)

Ingredients for the Filling:
- 300 g fresh mushrooms
- 2 sausages (preferably smoked for extra flavor)
- 1 carrot
- 2 garlic cloves
- Cheese (optional, preferably feta or mozzarella)
- Oil for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Paprika for decoration

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by preparing the dough for the empanadas. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and, using your fingers, incorporate it into the flour until the mixture resembles wet sand. This is an essential technique for achieving a flaky crust.

2. Adding the Eggs:
Lightly beat the two eggs and add them to the flour mixture. Knead gently until you obtain a non-sticky dough. If necessary, you can add a little cold water to help bind the ingredients. Once you have a smooth dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.

3. Preparing the Filling:
Peel the carrot and wash the mushrooms well, then drain them. In a skillet, add a little oil and sauté the grated carrot. After a few minutes, add the chopped mushrooms and sliced sausages. Add the crushed garlic, season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce, then let the mixture sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Finally, add the chopped parsley and let the filling cool.

4. Forming the Empanadas:
After the dough has rested, take it out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a thin sheet. Use a bowl or a pastry cutter to cut circles from the dough. In the center of each circle, add a tablespoon of the prepared filling and, if desired, a little grated cheese on top.

5. Sealing the Empanadas:
Lightly beat an egg and brush the edges of the dough circle with it. Then, fold the circle in half, sealing the edges by pressing them with a fork to ensure the filling doesn't leak during baking.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the surface with beaten egg and sprinkle paprika for added color and flavor. Bake the empanadas for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

7. Serving:
Serve them warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a yogurt garlic sauce. These empanadas are delicious both as an appetizer and as a main course. You can experiment with various sauces, from spicy to sweet and sour.

Helpful Tips:
- You can replace the mushrooms with spinach or other preferred vegetables.
- If you want a healthier version, you can use melted butter or olive oil instead of butter.
- These empanadas can be frozen before baking; simply place them in airtight containers, and when needed, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Mushroom empanadas are a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the mushrooms and sausages. One serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them excellent for immune system health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I substitute the sausages with chicken or turkey meat?
Absolutely! You can adapt the filling according to your preferences.

2. How can I make the empanadas healthier?
Use whole ingredients and reduce the amount of butter or use healthy alternatives.

3. Can I cook the empanadas in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry the empanadas for an even crispier crust, setting the temperature to 180°C for 15-18 minutes.

These mushroom empanadas are the perfect choice to surprise your family and friends with a special dish. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with loved ones!