Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Spain's Galicia region with our authentic recipe for Empanada Gallega. This savory pastry, hailing from the lush green landscapes of Galicia, is a true embodiment of Spanish comfort food. Our recipe takes you on a journey through the rustic flavors of the Galician countryside, featuring a hearty filling of tender meats, earthy vegetables, and aromatic spices encased in a flaky, golden crust. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, the Empanada Gallega offers a taste of tradition and a warm embrace of Galician culture. Experience the essence of Galicia with every delicious bite of this classic Spanish delicacy.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound cooked meat (chicken, pork, or beef), shredded or diced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: seafood such as tuna, cod, or shellfish, cooked and chopped
• Optional: hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• Optional: green olives, pitted and sliced

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

2- Slowly add the water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.

3- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.

3- Add the diced bell peppers and cook until they begin to soften.

4- Stir in the cooked meat, tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If using seafood, add it at this stage as well.

Preheat the Oven:

1- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Assemble the Empanada:

1- Divide the dough into two equal portions.

2- Roll out one portion of the dough on a floured surface into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick.

3- Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4- Spread the prepared filling evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

5- If using optional ingredients like sliced hard-boiled eggs or olives, arrange them over the filling.

Top and Seal the Empanada:

1- Roll out the second portion of dough into a circle of the same size as the first.

2- Carefully place it over the filling.

3- Fold the edges of the bottom dough over the top dough, crimping or pressing to seal the edges. You can also use a fork to press down and create a decorative pattern.

Bake the Empanada:

1- Brush the top of the empanada with olive oil or beaten egg for a shiny finish.

2- Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

3- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Serve:

1- Allow the empanada to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature as a delightful meal or snack, showcasing the flavors of Galicia in every bite.

This Galician Empanada Gallega is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite fillings, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal at home.

Nutritional Values :

For the Dough (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Total Fat: 20 gSaturated Fat: 3 g
• Total Carbohydrates: 30 gDietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 0 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Sodium: 295 mg

benefits

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Salt: Adds flavor and helps regulate fluid balance in the body.
• Cold Water: Essential for hydration and proper bodily functions.
• Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which may help lower the risk of heart disease and inflammation.

For the Filling (per serving, assuming 8 servings, excluding optional ingredients):

• Calories: 160 kcal
• Total Fat: 10 gSaturated Fat: 1 g
• Total Carbohydrates: 5 gDietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 3 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Sodium: 320 mg

benefits

• Onion: Contains antioxidants and compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Garlic: Known for its medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Olive Oil: Same benefits as mentioned for the dough.
• Bell Peppers (Red and Green): High in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, which support immune health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Cooked Meat (Chicken, Pork, Beef): Excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, important for muscle growth, energy production, and overall health.
• Tomato Sauce: Contains lycopene, an antioxidant associated with reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
• Paprika: Rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Salt and Pepper: Flavor enhancers that also contribute trace minerals essential for bodily functions.

Optional Ingredients:

• Seafood (Tuna, Cod, Shellfish): Excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: Good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin D and choline, which support brain and muscle health.
• Green Olives: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, which may have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. If you need more precise nutritional information, I recommend using a nutritional calculator or consulting specific product labels. Additionally, the nutritional values for optional ingredients like seafood, eggs, and olives would need to be calculated separately based on the specific types and quantities used.