Celebrating Bold Empanada Varieties in Santiago, Chile
Chile is famous for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. But for travelers and locals alike, the food is an equally exciting part of the experience. Among its most beloved dishes is the humble yet flavorful empanada. While empanadas are popular in many countries across Latin America, Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital city, has its own bold and diverse varieties that are worth celebrating.
What Is an Empanada?
An empanada is a type of pastry with a savory or sweet filling, often baked or fried to create a golden crust. In Chile, empanadas are usually made with wheat flour, and the fillings are wrapped in a dough that is carefully folded into a crescent shape before being cooked. They are easy to hold, making them the perfect snack or meal for people on the go.
Empanadas in Chile are more than just a quick bite. They’re a cherished tradition and a symbol of togetherness. Families make empanadas for special occasions, such as Independence Day celebrations, birthday parties, or casual gatherings, and they’re often enjoyed alongside friends with a glass of local wine.
The Classic Taste: Empanada de Pino
When talking about empanadas in Santiago, you can’t skip the most traditional variety—the empanada de pino. This staple of Chilean cuisine features a savory and slightly sweet filling made with minced or chopped beef, onions, raisins, hard-boiled eggs, and black olives. While the combination may seem unusual to some, the balance of flavors makes it special.
The onions are cooked until soft and caramelized, giving the filling a natural sweetness. The raisins add a surprising touch of sweetness, while the olives and eggs provide savory richness. Together, it’s a filling with layers of taste that perfectly complement the crispy baked dough.
In September, during the country’s Independence Day celebrations known as Fiestas Patrias, empanadas de pino become the star dish, enjoyed by locals at home, in parks, or at festive events around Santiago.
Bold, Modern Varieties
While empanada de pino holds a special place in the hearts of the Chilean people, Santiago is no stranger to innovation. Modern twists on traditional empanadas are popping up all over the city, giving visitors and locals plenty of options—and flavors—to explore.
Cheese Empanadas: A Melty Favorite
Many empanada lovers can’t resist the gooey goodness of cheese-filled empanadas, which are affectionately called empanadas de queso. These empanadas may seem simple, but their warm, melted cheese filling is sure to delight. Some shops take things up a notch, adding ingredients like oregano, mushrooms, or jamón (ham) for an extra punch of flavor.
Seafood Empanadas: A Coastal Touch
Chile is a coastal country with easy access to fresh seafood, and Santiago’s empanadas frequently reflect this bounty. Seafood empanadas may include crab, shrimp, or other locally sourced specialties paired with herbs, spices, and creamy sauces. One bite of a seafood empanada from a local market or café, and you’ll be transported to Chile’s shores.
Vegetarian Empanadas: Creative and Inclusive
With more people embracing plant-based diets, vegetarian empanadas are becoming increasingly popular. Varieties may include roasted vegetables, spinach, mushrooms, or spicy lentils wrapped in the same golden crust. These empanadas offer bold flavors that appeal to vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Sweet Empanadas: A Dessert Surprise
For those craving dessert, sweet empanadas offer a unique twist. Filled with ingredients like dulce de leche (a creamy caramel-like spread), apples, or even chocolate, these treats are the perfect way to end a meal. They prove that empanadas aren’t just for savory fillings—they’re a versatile dish that can satisfy any craving.
Where To Find Empanadas in Santiago
Santiago is packed with places to try empanadas, from small family-run shops to modern cafes and even street carts scattered around the city. One favorite spot for locals and tourists alike is La Vega Central, a bustling market where vendors showcase traditional empanadas alongside some of the city’s most creative flavors.
If you prefer a sit-down experience, many restaurants offer empanadas as appetizers or main dishes, often pairing them perfectly with a glass of Chilean wine. For adventurous foodies, food trucks and pop-up stands throughout the city provide exciting new empanada varieties to try.
Why Santiago’s Empanadas Are Special
Empanadas in Santiago aren’t just about the food—they’re about the culture. Whether enjoying a traditional empanada de pino during the holidays or trying out modern flavors at a trendy café, you’re experiencing a piece of Chile’s history and creativity. Each bite tells a story of the country’s love for bold flavors and its ability to fuse tradition with innovation.
So, the next time you visit Santiago, make sure to celebrate the city’s delicious empanadas. From the classics to unique modern varieties, these handheld pastries offer a culinary adventure like no other. Whether you enjoy them in the heart of Santiago’s markets or alongside the breathtaking Andes mountains, empanadas are a treat that you’ll remember long after you leave.
