Empanadas are a beloved dish with a rich history originating from Spain and Portugal, then spreading throughout Latin America and beyond. These savory pastries consist of a delicious filling encased in a dough shell, which is either baked or fried to perfection.

The filling options are diverse, ranging from classic combinations like seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful vegetables. Each region puts its unique spin on the recipe, resulting in a delightful array of flavors and textures.

Empanadas are not just a culinary delight; they also carry cultural significance, often served during festive occasions and family gatherings. The portability and versatility of empanadas make them a favorite snack, appetizer, or even a main course.

Whether enjoyed hot or cold, empanadas are a timeless classic that continues to captivate taste buds around the world, showcasing the culinary ingenuity and cultural heritage of their origins.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

- 1/2 cup cold water

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/2 pound ground beef or chicken

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

- 1/2 cup chopped olives (optional)

- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add chopped bell peppers and olives. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.

7. Place a spoonful of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. If desired, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling.

8. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges firmly to seal the empanadas.

9. Place the sealed empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

11. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade empanadas!

Nutrition Value:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: 908

  - Carbohydrates: 190g

  - Protein: 26g

  - Fat: 2g

  - Sodium: 1,167mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3)

  - Minerals: Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates, some protein, and essential B vitamins and minerals for metabolism.

2. Salt (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2,325mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor, but consumed in excess, it can contribute to high blood pressure. 

3. Unsalted Butter, chilled and cubed (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 814

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 92g

  - Sodium: 24mg

  - Cholesterol: 244mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides rich flavor and texture. Contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E.

4. Cold Water (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Essential for hydration and dough consistency.

5. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: 119

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 14g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin E, Vitamin K

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

6. Onion, finely chopped (1 onion):

  - Calories: 44

  - Carbohydrates: 10g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 4mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6

  - Minerals: Potassium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and provides vitamin C and other antioxidants.

7. Garlic, minced (2 cloves):

  - Calories: 9

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6

  - Minerals: Manganese

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and provides immune-boosting vitamin C.

8. Ground Beef or Chicken, cooked (1/2 pound):

  - Nutritional content varies depending on fat content and cooking method. Generally:

   - Calories: 336-450

   - Protein: 40-60g

   - Fat: 18-30g

   - Sodium: 70-140mg

   - Cholesterol: 120-180mg

   - Vitamins: Vitamin B12, Niacin, Vitamin B6

   - Minerals: Iron, Zinc

   - Nutritional Benefit: Protein-rich ingredient essential for muscle repair and growth.

9. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 8

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 10mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and provides antioxidants.

10. Paprika (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin E

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds color and flavor, contains antioxidants.

11. Bell Peppers, chopped (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 12

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6

  - Minerals: Potassium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.

12. Olives, chopped (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 74

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 7g

  - Sodium: 535mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin E

  - Minerals: Iron

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.

13. Shredded Cheese (1/2 cup):

  - Nutritional content varies depending on the type of cheese. Generally:

   - Calories: 200-220

   - Carbohydrates: 1-2g

   - Protein: 14-16g

   - Fat: 15-18g

   - Sodium: 300-400mg

   - Cholesterol: 50-60mg

   - Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin

   - Minerals: Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc

   - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of protein and calcium.

14. Egg, beaten (1 egg):

  - Calories: 72

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 5g

  - Sodium: 71mg

  - Cholesterol: 186mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12

  - Minerals: Iron

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides protein and essential vitamins and minerals. The egg wash adds shine and color to the empanadas when baked.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors like ingredient brands, cooking methods, and portion sizes.