Empanadas are a beloved dish that brings together flavors and textures in a delightful handheld package. Making them yourself allows you to tailor the fillings to your taste, providing a personalized touch to this classic recipe. For those looking for a vegan alternative, this Vegan Empanadas Dough Recipe will guide you through creating a versatile and flaky dough that perfectly complements a variety of fillings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, these empanadas are sure to be a hit.
**Vegan Empanadas Dough Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vegan butter, chilled and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the chilled vegan butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. **Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate small bowl, mix together the cold water and apple cider vinegar. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough starts to come together.
3. **Knead the Dough:** Transfer the dough onto a clean, floured surface. Gently knead the dough for a few minutes until it forms a smooth ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep it tender and flaky.
4. **Chill the Dough:** Wrap the dough ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the gluten to relax and the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out and shape.
5. **Roll Out the Dough:** After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Use a rolling pin to create an even circle or rectangle, depending on the shape of your empanadas.
6. **Cut and Fill:** Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles from the rolled dough. Place a spoonful of your favorite vegan filling in the center of each circle, leaving space around the edges to seal the empanadas.
7. **Seal and Crimp:** Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges or twist and fold the dough to seal the empanadas securely. For a decorative touch, you can also create a braided edge by pinching the dough with your fingers.
8. **Bake or Fry:** Depending on your preference, you can bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Alternatively, you can fry them in hot oil until crispy and golden on both sides. Serve warm and enjoy!
Homemade vegan empanadas are a versatile and delicious option for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow dough recipe, you can experiment with various fillings to create a culinary masterpiece that is sure to impress your family and friends. From savory vegetable fillings to sweet fruit combinations, the possibilities are endless. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and savor the joy of making your own Vegan Empanadas from scratch.
