Discover how to make classic empanadas with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you prefer savory meat, fresh vegetables, or gooey cheese fillings, these delicious pastries are perfect for any occasion. Learn the step-by-step process to create flaky, golden empanadas from scratch, ideal for appetizers, snacks, or a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

 - 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

 - 1 tsp salt

 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces

 - 1 large egg

 - 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)

For the Filling:

 - 1 cup cooked and shredded beef, chicken, or a mix of vegetables

 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

 - 1 garlic clove, minced

 - 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

 - 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)

 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin

 - 1/2 tsp paprika

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - 1 tbsp olive oil

For Assembly:

 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  - In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.

  - Add the butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  - Beat the egg and mix it into the dough. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Do not overwork.

  - Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

  - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

  - Add the shredded meat or vegetables, along with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is well combined and heated through.

  - Stir in the cheese and bell peppers, if using. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Assemble the Empanadas:

  - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.

  - Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.

  - Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.

  - Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake:

  - Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

  - Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups)

   - Approximately 1,260 calories

   - 340 grams of carbohydrates

   - 24 grams of protein

   - 6 grams of fat

Benefits:

   - Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

   - Fortified versions can offer added vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins.

Salt (1 tsp)

   - 2,300 mg sodium (100% of the daily recommended limit)

Benefits:

   - Essential for fluid balance and nerve function.

   - Moderation is key to avoid health issues like hypertension.

Unsalted Butter (½ cup)

   - About 400 calories

   - 44 grams of fat (28 grams of saturated fat)

Benefits:

   - Provides essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

   - Adds richness and flavor to the dough.

Large Egg (1)

   - About 70 calories

   - 6 grams of protein

   - 5 grams of fat (1.5 grams of saturated fat)

   - 186 mg cholesterol

Benefits:

   - Rich in high-quality protein.

   - Provides essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, as well as choline.

Cold Water (¼ cup, more if needed)

   - Calories: 0

Benefits:

   - Hydrates and helps to bind the dough.

Cooked and Shredded Beef, Chicken, or Mixed Vegetables (1 cup)

   - Beef: Approximately 250 calories, 23 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat

   - Chicken: Approximately 200 calories, 30 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat

   - Vegetables: Varies based on type, generally low in calories and fat, high in fiber and vitamins

Benefits:

   - Provides protein for muscle repair and growth.

   - Vegetables offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Small Onion (1, finely chopped)

   - About 45 calories

   - 10 grams of carbohydrates

   - 1 gram of protein

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin C.

   - May have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Garlic Clove (1, minced)

   - About 4 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

   - Trace amounts of vitamins and minerals

Benefits:

   - Known for its antioxidant properties.

   - May support cardiovascular health and immune function.

Grated Cheese (½ cup, cheddar, mozzarella, or choice)

   - Cheddar: About 170 calories, 14 grams of fat, 10 grams of protein

   - Mozzarella: About 150 calories, 11 grams of fat, 12 grams of protein

Benefits:

   - Rich in calcium and protein.

   - Provides essential vitamins like A and B12.

Diced Bell Peppers (½ cup, optional)

   - About 15 calories

   - 3 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - High in vitamins A and C.

   - Contains antioxidants that support overall health.

Ground Cumin (½ tsp)

   - About 8 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Provides iron and antioxidants.

   - May aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Paprika (½ tsp)

   - About 6 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and E.

   - Adds flavor and color to dishes.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

   - Salt: Varies based on amount used.

   - Pepper: Minimal calories and nutrients.

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor.

   - Pepper may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Olive Oil (1 tbsp)

   - About 120 calories

   - 14 grams of fat (2 grams of saturated fat)

Benefits:

   - Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

   - Supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory effects.

Egg (1, beaten for egg wash)

   - About 70 calories

   - 6 grams of protein

   - 5 grams of fat (1.5 grams of saturated fat)

   - 186 mg cholesterol

Benefits:

   - Adds protein and a glossy finish to baked goods.

   - Provides essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.