Chilean Empanadas: A Tasty Tradition During National Celebrations
When it comes to celebrating important national holidays in Chile, food plays a big role. One dish stands out from the rest—empanadas. These delicious pastries are a vital part of many festivities, especially during Chile’s Independence Day celebrations, known locally as “Fiestas Patrias”. Empanadas are more than just food in Chile; they are a symbol of heritage, community, and joy.
What Are Chilean Empanadas?
Empanadas are baked or fried pastries filled with a variety of ingredients. In Chile, the most popular version is called empanada de pino. The word “pino” refers to the mixture inside the pastry. The classic filling includes seasoned ground beef, onions, black olives, a slice of hard-boiled egg, and sometimes raisins. All of this is wrapped in a dough that is baked to golden perfection, creating a meal that is both flavorful and satisfying.
The dough is slightly thicker than that of other empanadas found in Latin America. This gives Chilean empanadas their hearty texture and allows them to hold their rich filling without falling apart. Whether eaten as a snack or part of a full meal, empanadas are loved for their crispy crust and bold, juicy flavors.
Empanadas During Fiestas Patrias
Fiestas Patrias is the time when Chileans commemorate their independence. The festivities happen every year on September 18th and 19th, and it’s one of the biggest celebrations in the country. During this period, streets, parks, and homes are filled with laughter, dancing, music, and, of course, plenty of food. Empanadas are one of the stars of the feast.
In many cities and towns, locals set up large tents called “fondas” or “ramadas” where people gather to eat, drink, and dance. Empanadas are served in abundance at these lively events. Families, friends, and neighbors bond over platters of the warm pastries, alongside other classic dishes like Chilean barbecue (asado), anticuchos (meat skewers), and choripán (chorizo sausage in bread).
Making empanadas at home is also a tradition during Fiestas Patrias. Families often gather in kitchens to prepare them together. The process of rolling out the dough, sautéing onions, and creating the pino filling can take hours, but it’s part of the fun. Younger members of the family learn the recipes from their elders, passing the art of empanada-making down through generations.
A Symbol of Togetherness
Food is an essential part of any cultural celebration, and empanadas have a special place in Chilean hearts. While everyone enjoys them for their delicious taste, they also represent togetherness. Whether you’re eating an empanada at a bustling fonda or sharing homemade ones with family, they bring people closer.
During Fiestas Patrias, empanadas remind Chileans of their cultural roots. They represent a mix of indigenous ingredients, colonial influences, and modern Chilean creativity. Eating empanadas becomes a shared moment, connecting people to their history and each other.
Variations of Empanadas
While empanada de pino is the most traditional type, Chileans love variety. For those who prefer vegetarian options, spinach and cheese empanadas are popular. Seafood empanadas, filled with crab, shrimp, or other local catches, are also a favorite in coastal areas.
Fried empanadas, known locally as empanadas fritas, are another variation. These golden, crunchy pastries are often smaller and filled with cheese or other simple fillings. Fried empanadas make for a quick and satisfying snack, perfect for an afternoon spent celebrating with friends.
Pairing Empanadas with Drinks
No Chilean celebration is complete without refreshing beverages to accompany the food. Empanadas pair particularly well with terremoto, a sweet and fruity cocktail made with wine, pineapple ice cream, and a splash of grenadine. For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, mote con huesillo is a unique Chilean dessert beverage made from sweet peach syrup and barley.
Of course, empanadas also go well with a glass of Chilean red wine or a cold beer. The right drink enhances the flavors of the savory pino filling and buttery dough.
Empanadas Around the World
Chilean empanadas are enjoyed not only within the country but also by Chileans living abroad. Expats often prepare empanadas to stay connected to their roots, especially during Fiestas Patrias. They’ve introduced the dish to friends and neighbors worldwide, helping spread Chilean culinary traditions far and wide.
Similarly, tourists who visit Chile often fall in love with empanadas and learn to appreciate their cultural significance. The dish has become a symbol of Chilean hospitality, warmth, and celebration.
Whether It’s Fiestas Patrias or Any Day
While empanadas are a must-have during national holidays like Fiestas Patrias, they’re enjoyed year-round. They are sold in bakeries, served at family gatherings, and packed as on-the-go meals. No matter the occasion, empanadas always make people smile.
As Fiestas Patrias approaches each year, Chileans look forward to the joy of sharing empanadas with loved ones. These humble pastries hold the flavors of tradition, community, and pride—a reminder of why food is often the heart of celebration.
