Colombian Empanadas Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes  

   Prep Time: 35 minutes

Colombian Empanadas Ingredients

Colombian Empanadas Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of pre-cooked yellow cornmeal, 2 1/2 cups warm chicken stock, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter. Mix with your hands until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
  2. Place the diced Yukon Gold potatoes in a small pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped white onion and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped scallions, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomato, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook for 3 more minutes until the tomato softens.
  5. Add the cooked potatoes and chopped cilantro to the beef mixture. Stir well and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
  6. Divide the dough into 12 equal balls. Place each ball between two pieces of plastic wrap and flatten into a 5-inch circle using your hands or a tortilla press.
  7. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef and potato filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
  8. Seal the edges by pressing firmly with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to ensure they are tightly closed.
  9. Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot to a depth of about 2 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Carefully add the empanadas in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot.
  11. Remove the empanadas with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil before serving.

Estimated Calories: 200, Servings: 10

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Empanadas Story

It all started on a rainy Tuesday when my stomach was grumbling louder than the thunder outside. I had just watched a cooking show that made everything look so easy and fast, so I thought, "How hard could it be to whip up something from memory?" Armed with nothing but my questionable confidence and a vague recollection of what the dish looked like, I dove headfirst into the kitchen. My motivation? The promise of a delicious treat and the hope that I could finally impress my roommate, who still talks about the time I burned water.
As I began, I realized that my memory was about as reliable as a GPS with a low battery. I was convinced that if I just followed my instincts, I would stumble upon the best version ever made. I threw in a little of this, a dash of that, and maybe a bit too much of something else. The process was not exactly quick or easy, but I kept telling myself that great things take time. My kitchen looked like a tornado had passed through, but I was having a good time, laughing at my own mistakes and making a mental note to never trust my memory with a recipe again.
When the moment of truth arrived, I took a bite and braced myself. To my surprise, it was actually pretty tasty-maybe not the most authentic, but definitely edible and even a little healthy, if you squinted. My roommate declared it "not bad," which, coming from him, was high praise. I learned that sometimes the best dishes come from a little chaos and a lot of laughter. Next time, though, I might just look up a recipe-just to be safe!

Empanadas Quick Mistake Fixes

Ever bitten into an empanada and felt like you just licked a salt block? Too much salt can turn a delicious treat into a sodium overload, making you reach for water faster than you can say "¡Ay caramba!" The best way to avoid this is to remember that a good empanada should have a balance of flavors, not a salt explosion. If you find yourself in a salty situation, a quick fix is to serve your empanadas with a healthy, unsalted salsa or a side of something mild to help mellow things out. Remember, a great empanada recipe is all about harmony, not a salt contest.
Nobody wants to bite into an empanada and find the filling as dry as the Sahara or, worse, soggy like a forgotten sandwich at the bottom of a lunchbox. Achieving that perfect texture is key to a delicious and easy eating experience. If your empanadas are coming out dry, a fast solution is to add a bit of moisture to the filling next time, or serve them with a good dipping sauce. On the flip side, if they are soggy, it might be time to check your frying technique or let them cool on a rack instead of a plate. The best empanadas are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, so keep an eye on that texture for a truly great result.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the flavors just do not pop, and your empanadas taste a bit bland. This is where last minute changes can save the day and turn a so-so snack into a crowd-pleaser. A quick sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of hot sauce, or a squeeze of lime can work wonders to brighten things up. Do not be afraid to get creative and trust your taste buds. After all, the best empanada is the one that makes you do a happy dance after the first bite!

About Empanadas Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic recipe for Colombian empanadas, you've come to the right place! These delicious homemade treats are a staple in Colombian cuisine, known for their crispy golden crust and tasty, savory filling. With this easy and quick recipe, you'll learn how to make the perfect empanadas right in your own kitchen. The secret lies in using the right ingredients and following a few simple tips to ensure your empanadas turn out just like the ones you'd find on the streets of Colombia.
One of the best things about this recipe is how approachable it is, even for beginners. The ingredients are easy to find, and the step-by-step instructions make the process simple and enjoyable. Whether you're making these for a family gathering or just craving a quick snack, this recipe will show you how to make Colombian empanadas that are both authentic and delicious. Don't forget to try out some of the tips included to get that perfect crispy texture and tasty filling every time!
If you've ever wondered how to make the best homemade empanadas, this is the recipe for you. With its combination of easy preparation, quick cooking time, and mouthwatering results, you'll be amazed at how delicious and authentic your empanadas turn out. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the perfect Colombian empanadas-crispy on the outside, flavorful on the inside, and absolutely irresistible. This is the ultimate recipe for anyone who loves tasty, homemade snacks and wants to experience the true flavors of Colombia!

Empanadas Tips

Ready to make the best empanadas ever? Let's talk about how to make these tasty pockets of joy truly shine! For an authentic recipe, the secret is all in the dough-aim for a texture that's soft but not sticky, so your homemade empanadas are easy to shape and fry. If you want a quick and simple process, keep your workspace floured and your hands slightly oiled. That's a pro tip for avoiding dough disasters!
When it comes to the filling, the best Colombian empanadas are all about balance. You want a delicious mix of flavors-savory, a little spicy, and perfectly seasoned. Don't be shy with your spices! For a truly authentic taste, make sure your ingredients are fresh and finely chopped. Want to know how to make your empanadas extra tasty? Let the filling cool before stuffing the dough. Hot filling = sad, soggy dough. Nobody wants that!
For a crispy, golden finish, fry your empanadas in hot oil-don't crowd the pan, or you'll end up with a soggy mess instead of the perfect crunch. If you're looking for easy cleanup, line a plate with paper towels to soak up excess oil. And here's a quick tip: serve your homemade empanadas with a zesty dipping sauce for that extra wow factor. With these tips, your Colombian-inspired recipe will be the talk of the town-delicious, authentic, and oh-so-perfect!

Empanadas Pairings

If you are on a quest for the best flavors to accompany your Colombian empanadas, look no further than the world of salsas and dips. Aji, the zesty Colombian hot sauce, is a quick and easy way to add a delicious kick to every bite. The tangy, herby, and slightly spicy notes of aji are a good match for the crispy exterior and savory filling of empanadas. If you are feeling adventurous, try a recipe for guacamole or a fresh tomato salsa for a healthy and vibrant twist. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this flavor fiesta.
Now, let us talk about the foods that make empanadas shine even brighter. A great side dish is a simple salad with avocado, tomato, and red onion, tossed in a light lime dressing. This is not only a healthy and fast option, but it also balances the richness of the empanadas. For a heartier meal, serve them with a bowl of quick black beans or a good helping of rice. These sides are easy to prepare and will make your empanada experience feel like a full-on Colombian feast, minus the plane ticket.
No Colombian empanada party is complete without a refreshing drink in hand. For a non-alcoholic option, try a glass of chilled lulo juice or passion fruit juice, both of which are delicious and easy to whip up. If you are in the mood for something a bit more festive, a cold beer or a light white wine is a great pairing. These drinks are the best way to wash down those golden pockets of joy and keep the good times rolling. Cheers to quick, tasty, and unforgettable moments!