How to Prepare Bite-Sized Empanadas for Appetizers
Are you thinking of a perfect appetizer that’s both delicious and not too filling? Something that tantalizes the taste buds without overshadowing the main course? Look no further than bite-sized empanadas! These little pockets of joy are versatile, easy to make, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delightful appetizers. Let’s dive in!
What Are Empanadas?
Originating from Latin America, empanadas are pastry-filled delights. They come in various sizes and can be filled with a myriad of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, cheese, or even fruit for a sweet version. For appetizers, we’ll focus on making them bite-sized – perfect for popping into your mouth in one go!
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of cold butter (cut into small pieces)
- 1 egg
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1/4 cup of water
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For the Filling (Savory Option):
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 pound of ground beef or chicken
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 cup of grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
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For the Filling (Vegetarian Option):
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup of diced vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, etc.)
- 1/2 cup of corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of grated cheese
Instructions:
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Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with the water. Add this to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- For a meat filling, add your ground beef or chicken, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned. For a vegetarian version, add your diced vegetables, corn, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
- Set aside to cool, then stir in the cheese.
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Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a small round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Place a small spoonful of your filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, using a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanada.
- Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, you can brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed as is or with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Tips for Success:
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings! Almost anything goes from different types of meat, cheeses, and vegetables. Just ensure the filling isn’t too wet, as it can make the dough soggy.
- Make Ahead: These empanadas can be made ahead of time and frozen, either before or after baking. Just thaw and reheat in the oven, and they’re good as new.
- Size Matters: For appetizers, keeping them bite-sized is key. This ensures they’re easy to eat and makes for a great presentation.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a satisfying snack, or just in the mood to try something new, these bite-sized empanadas are a fantastic choice. With just a bit of prep and some creativity, you can wow your guests with these flavorful, handheld treats. Happy cooking!
