Empanadas

Empanadas: The Perfect Taste of Customized Fillings

There are moments in life when a recipe entices you with its aroma, and your taste buds won't let you forget. Such was the case for me when I discovered Laura's empanada recipe. A versatile dish, rich in history and tradition, empanadas actually mean 'stuffed bread', coming from the verb 'empanar', which means to coat in bread. These delights can be filled with meat, vegetables, or even fruits, and I let my creativity flow and decided to put my own stamp on the original recipe. So, let’s venture into the savory world of empanadas!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 300 g cottage cheese (opt for fresh, creamy cheese)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Approximately 300 g flour (depending on the moisture of the cheese)
- Cold water (enough to help achieve an elastic dough)

*For the filling:*
- 1 chicken breast (finely chopped)
- 100 g mushrooms (optional, but adds a delicious flavor)
- 50 g cheese (buy quality cheese for better taste)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 egg (to bind the filling)
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (to enhance flavors)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 50 ml water (to help cook the filling)

*For the garlic sauce:*
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced, for a strong flavor)
- A bit of fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Paprika (for appearance and flavor)

Making the dough:

1. In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, salt, and flour. Use your hands to mix the ingredients. It is essential that the cheese is creamy; otherwise, the dough will be too dry.

2. If the dough is too soft, add more flour. Conversely, if it is too hard, add a tablespoon of cold water until you achieve a pliable, non-sticky dough that can be rolled out.

3. Once you have the perfect dough, let it rest for 30 minutes, covered with a damp towel. This step will make the dough easier to work with.

Making the filling:

1. Chop the chicken breast and onion. Then, in a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the finely chopped mushrooms. Continue sautéing for another 2 minutes.

3. Add the chopped chicken and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Once the meat is well cooked, add 50 ml of water and let it simmer until completely evaporated.

4. Once the water has evaporated, add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Let it cool slightly, then add the beaten egg and cubed cheese. Mix the filling well.

Forming the empanadas:

1. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you obtain a thin sheet. Use a soup bowl to cut circles from the dough.

2. Place a teaspoon of the prepared filling in the center of each circle.

3. Bring together the opposite edges of the circle and press them gently with a fork to ensure the empanadas are well sealed.

4. Place the empanadas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with beaten egg and sprinkle a bit of paprika for an attractive appearance.

5. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the empanadas for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Making the garlic sauce:

1. In a bowl, combine sour cream, salt, minced garlic, dill, and olive oil. Use a blender to mix the sauce until smooth.

2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.

Serving:

Empanadas are served warm, alongside garlic sauce. If you prefer a cooler option, you can pair them with yogurt or a glass of sweet milk. They can also be enjoyed cold, making them ideal for picnics or quick snacks.

Tips and variations:

- You can experiment with various fillings: add roasted vegetables, different cheeses, or even fruits for a sweet version.
- If you want to give it a more exotic touch, you can add spices like cumin or curry to the filling.
- Make sure the dough is not too wet to prevent breaking during baking.

Nutritional information:

This empanada recipe contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the filling. The cottage cheese adds an important protein boost, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I make empanadas without meat?
Yes! You can use vegetables or cheese as a filling. You can also experiment with legume-based fillings.

2. How can I store empanadas for later?
You can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer, and once they are firm, you can transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to prepare them, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

3. What can I pair empanadas with?
You can serve them with a fresh salad, guacamole, or salsa sauce to add a fresh and spicy note.

Empanadas are a perfect choice for a family meal, a lunch at the office, or an evening with friends. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on the recipe! Bon appétit!