Empanadas are a type of pastry filled with various ingredients and baked or fried. They are a popular snack in many Latin American countries, as well as in Spain, Portugal, and the Philippines. They are usually made with dough that is either unleavened or made with baking powder, and can be filled with either savory or sweet ingredients. While there are many variations of empanadas, there are some basic types that are common in many different regions.
Types of Empanadas
The most common type of empanada is the savory variety, filled with ingredients such as ground beef, chicken, pork, or seafood. These savory empanadas are often served as appetizers or snacks, and are usually deep-fried or baked. They can also be served as a main dish, topped with sauces or salsas.
The second type of empanada is the sweet variety, which are usually filled with fruits such as apples, pineapple, or bananas. These sweet empanadas are often served as a dessert, and are usually baked or deep-fried. Some sweet empanadas can also be filled with a sweet cream cheese filling.
Finally, there are a variety of other types of empanadas, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Vegetarian empanadas are usually filled with vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, and onions. Vegan empanadas can be filled with a variety of vegan-friendly ingredients such as tofu, beans, and vegetables. Gluten-free empanadas are usually made with gluten-free dough and filled with gluten-free ingredients.
Ingredients
The ingredients used to make empanadas vary depending on the type and region. The most common ingredients used in savory empanadas include ground beef, chicken, pork, seafood, potatoes, and spices. Sweet empanadas usually contain fruits such as apples, pineapple, or bananas, as well as sweet cream cheese fillings. Other ingredients used in empanadas include vegetables, beans, tofu, and cheeses.
Preparation
Empanadas can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on the type and region. The most common method is to roll out a dough and cut it into small circles. The circles are then filled with the desired ingredients and sealed. The empanadas can then be either deep-fried or baked. Some empanadas are also steamed or boiled.
Deep-Fried Empanadas
Deep-fried empanadas are usually made with a dough that is either unleavened or made with baking powder. The dough is rolled out and cut into small circles. The circles are then filled with the desired ingredients and sealed. The empanadas are then deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown.
Baked Empanadas
Baked empanadas are usually made with a dough that is either unleavened or made with baking powder. The dough is rolled out and cut into small circles. The circles are then filled with the desired ingredients and sealed. The empanadas are then baked in the oven until golden brown.
Serving
Empanadas can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the type and region. Savory empanadas are usually served as an appetizer or snack, and are often topped with sauces or salsas. Sweet empanadas are usually served as a dessert, and can be served with ice cream or whipped cream. Empanadas can also be served as a main dish, with a side of rice or potatoes.
Conclusion
Empanadas are a popular pastry that can be filled with either savory or sweet ingredients. There are many different types of empanadas, including savory, sweet, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The ingredients used to make empanadas vary depending on the type and region, and empanadas can be prepared in a variety of ways, including deep-frying and baking. Empanadas can be served as an appetizer or snack, as a dessert, or as a main dish.