Empanadas are a type of pastry found throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, but in Argentina they have become a symbol of the nation’s culture and cuisine. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” which means to wrap in pastry or dough. The pastry is usually filled with various ingredients such as beef, chicken, vegetables, and cheese, and then fried or baked. Empanadas are an integral part of Argentine culture and can be found in restaurants, street food stalls, and even in home kitchens. But how exactly do Argentines refer to empanadas?
Types of Empanadas
In Argentina, there are two main types of empanadas: “empanadas criollas” and “empanadas salteñas.” Empanadas criollas are the most popular type of empanadas in Argentina and are typically filled with beef, chicken, vegetables, and cheese. They are usually deep-fried and served hot. Empanadas salteñas, on the other hand, are filled with a mixture of beef, onions, olives, and boiled eggs. They are typically baked and served at room temperature.
Regional Variations
In addition to the two main types of empanadas, there are also regional variations throughout Argentina. In the northwest of the country, empanadas are often filled with spicy ingredients such as chili peppers, while in the south they are usually filled with seafood. In the city of Buenos Aires, empanadas are usually filled with spinach and ricotta cheese, while in the city of Rosario they are often filled with ham and cheese. In the province of Córdoba, empanadas are usually filled with sweet ingredients such as raisins, apples, and cinnamon.
How Argentines Refer to Empanadas
In Argentina, the word “empanada” is used to refer to any type of pastry that is filled and then fried or baked. However, the word “empanada” can also be used to refer specifically to the two main types of empanadas: “empanadas criollas” and “empanadas salteñas.” When referring to the regional variations of empanadas, Argentines will often use the name of the specific filling, such as “empanada de carne” (meat empanada) or “empanada de camarones” (shrimp empanada).
Conclusion
In Argentina, empanadas are an important part of the nation’s culture and cuisine. The word “empanada” is used to refer to any type of pastry that is filled and then fried or baked, but it can also be used to refer specifically to the two main types of empanadas: “empanadas criollas” and “empanadas salteñas.” When referring to the regional variations of empanadas, Argentines will often use the name of the specific filling, such as “empanada de carne” or “empanada de camarones.”