Indulge in the irresistible flavors of the Dominican Republic with our authentic Dominican Empanadas. These delectable hand-held treats boast a golden, flaky crust enveloping a savory filling that bursts with traditional Dominican spices and ingredients. Whether you're craving the classic picadillo filling of seasoned ground beef, olives, and raisins, or the vibrant flavors of shredded chicken, peppers, and onions, each bite is a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean. Perfectly fried to crispy perfection, these empanadas are a beloved snack or mealtime favorite, bringing a taste of the tropics right to your table. Enjoy them hot and fresh, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce, and savor the rich heritage and flavors of the Dominican Republic with every bite.

here's a recipe for making traditional Dominican Empanadas:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 lb ground beef or chicken (or your choice of filling)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green olives and/or raisins
• Cheese, diced (optional)
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2- Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and knead until a smooth dough forms. You may need slightly more or less water depending on the humidity and the flour used.

3- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.

Prepare the Filling:

1- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2- Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

3- Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using, add the chopped olives and/or raisins. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.

Assemble and Fry the Empanadas:

1- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles of dough, about 4-6 inches in diameter.

2- Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Add diced cheese if desired.

3- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges of the empanadas.

4- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the empanadas. Fry the empanadas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5- Remove the empanadas from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

1- Serve the empanadas hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chimichurri, salsa, or hot sauce. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Dominican Republic empanadas!

These empanadas are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a main course when paired with a salad or rice. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients to make them your own!

Nutritional Values :

All-purpose flour (3 cups):

• Calories: 1100
• Carbohydrates: 231g
• Protein: 31g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 8g

benefits:Provides carbohydrates for energy, fiber for digestion, and some protein.

Butter (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 800
• Fat: 92g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 1g

benefits:Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and K, along with saturated fats for energy and hormone regulation.

Water (1/2 cup):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:Essential for hydration and bodily functions.

Egg (1):

• Calories: 70
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:Excellent source of protein, vitamins (such as B12 and D), and minerals like iron and zinc.

Olive oil (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:Rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Onion (1 small):

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Contains antioxidants, vitamins (such as C and B6), and fiber for digestive health.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Known for its medicinal properties, including immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and heart-health benefits.

Bell pepper (1):

• Calories: 25
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber for immune support and digestive health.

Ground beef or chicken (1 lb):

For ground beef:

• Calories: 850
• Fat: 70g
• Protein: 48g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, iron, and B vitamins.

For chicken breast:

• Calories: 590
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 120g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, iron, and B vitamins.

Ground cumin (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion and promote weight loss.

Dried oregano (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:Rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, may also have anti-inflammatory effects.

Salt and pepper:

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:Adds flavor and may contain trace minerals essential for bodily functions.

Green olives (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 35
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:Rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E, good for heart health.

Raisins (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 130
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:High in natural sugars for energy, fiber, and antioxidants like resveratrol.

Cheese:

• Calories, fat, protein, and other values depend on the type and quantity of cheese used.

benefits:Provides protein, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins like A and B12, essential for bone health and metabolism.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, specific ingredients used, and cooking methods. It's always a good idea to check the nutritional information on product packaging for precise values.