Step-by-Step Recipe for Traditional Chilean Empanadas
Empanadas are a beloved dish in Chile, and for good reason! These hand-sized pastries are filled with a delicious mixture of ingredients, usually including beef, onions, and spices. They’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or snack time and are enjoyed at family gatherings, picnics, or Fiestas Patrias (Chile’s independence celebrations). Making traditional Chilean empanadas at home might seem like a challenge, but with the right recipe, they’re easy and fun to prepare. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide for making delicious Chilean empanadas.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 tablespoons butter or lard (softened)
- 1 cup warm water
For the Filling (Pino):
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef or finely chopped beef
- 2 large onions (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (sliced)
- 8 black olives (whole)
- Raisins (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
The dough is the base of any good empanada, so it’s important to make it sturdy but easy to fold.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the softened butter or lard to the dry ingredients and mix well using your hands or a wooden spoon.
- Gradually pour in warm water while continuing to mix. The goal is to create a smooth, elastic dough.
- Knead the dough on a clean surface for about 5–10 minutes until it feels soft and pliable.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling (Pino)
In Chile, the beef filling for empanadas is known as “pino.” It’s a hearty mixture of meat, onions, and spices that gives empanadas their signature flavor.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Stir until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Season the mixture with paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the spices to your taste.
- Cook everything together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend nicely.
- Turn off the heat and let the filling cool completely before assembling the empanadas.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
This is where the magic happens! Folding and sealing the empanadas is easier than you might think.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball into a circle about 6–8 inches in diameter.
- Place a generous spoonful of the cooled pino filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Add a slice or two of hard-boiled egg, a black olive, and a few raisins (if desired) on top of the filling.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then fold or twist them to seal the empanadas. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
- Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Empanadas
The empanadas are almost ready to eat! Baking brings out their beautiful golden color and flaky texture.
- In a small bowl, beat an egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash.
- Brush the egg wash over the tops of the empanadas to give them a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Be careful—they’ll be very hot inside!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Traditional Chilean empanadas are best served warm, and they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or a glass of Chilean red wine. They’re flavorful, filling, and comforting—perfect for any occasion. You can also refrigerate or freeze leftovers and reheat them in the oven when you’re ready for a delicious snack.
Tips for Success:
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can swap the beef for a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
- For a sweeter twist, experiment with fillings like cheese, fruit, or dulce de leche.
- Don’t rush the cooling process for the filling—it helps prevent the dough from getting soggy.
By following this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavors of Chile right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something different, traditional Chilean empanadas are always a hit. Give it a try, and soon you’ll be making them like a pro!
