Intro:
Empanadas are a delightful dish that originated in Spain and have since found their way into kitchens around the world with unique variations in different countries. Today, we bring you a taste of the Philippines with our recipe for Filipino Empanadas. These savory hand pies are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, potatoes, peas, and spices, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. They are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a tasty snack. Let’s get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with our easy-to-follow recipe for Filipino Empanadas – a true crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for more.
Filipino Empanada Recipe
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 1 lb ground beef or pork
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen green peas
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for cooking
For the dough:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup cold water
– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
Instructions:
1. Start by making the dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg and cold water together. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
4. Add the diced potatoes and cook until slightly softened. Stir in the green peas, soy sauce, fish sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small plate to cut out circles of dough, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
7. Spoon a generous amount of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
8. Use a fork to press and seal the edges of the empanadas. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, slightly spaced apart. Brush the tops with the egg wash for a golden finish.
9. Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Enjoy your homemade Filipino Empanadas hot or at room temperature. They can be served as a main dish with a side salad or eaten on their own as a delicious snack. These hand-held delights are versatile and perfect for any occasion. With their flaky crust and savory filling, they are sure to become a family favorite in no time. So, gather your loved ones and savor the flavors of the Philippines with these delectable empanadas!
