Empanadas De Viento Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes  

   Prep Time: 35 minutes

Empanadas De Viento Ingredients

Empanadas De Viento Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt.
  2. Add 4 tablespoons cold, diced unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a small bowl, beat 1 large egg with 1/3 cup cold water and 1 tablespoon white vinegar.
  4. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir with a fork until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add more cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it comes together.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. While the dough chills, melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup finely diced white onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat and let cool.
  8. In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, the cooled onion mixture, and 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro. Mix well to form the cheese filling.
  9. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
  10. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle about 5 inches in diameter.
  11. Place about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.
  12. Beat 1 large egg in a small bowl. Brush the edges of each dough circle lightly with the beaten egg.
  13. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp with a fork to seal completely.
  14. Pour about 4 cups of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy pot and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  15. Fry the empanadas in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
  16. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried empanadas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly.
  17. While still warm, dust the empanadas generously with 1/4 cup granulated sugar if desired, for a traditional finish.

Estimated Calories: 260, Servings: 8

Recommended Dishes

Empanadas De Viento Pairings

The best flavors to accompany Empanadas De Viento are those that balance their rich, cheesy filling with something bright and refreshing. A quick salsa criolla, with its tangy onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, offers a delicious contrast and a healthy, vibrant aroma. The sharpness of the onions and the citrusy notes cut through the richness, making each bite feel light and easy. For a great twist, a fast drizzle of aji sauce brings a gentle heat and herbal freshness, elevating the overall experience with a recipe that is both simple and full of character.
A good side to serve with these empanadas is a crisp, fresh salad. Think of a medley of ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumbers, and sweet corn, tossed with a light vinaigrette for a quick and healthy addition. The crunch and juiciness of the vegetables provide a great textural contrast to the warm, flaky pastry. This easy side not only looks beautiful on the plate but also brings a delicious, garden-fresh aroma that complements the empanadas perfectly.
For drinks, a fast and refreshing non-alcoholic option like a chilled glass of maracuyá (passion fruit) juice is a great pairing. Its tart, tropical notes are the best way to cleanse the palate between bites, and the vibrant color adds a festive touch to the table. If you prefer something with a bit more complexity, a good recipe for a light, sparkling white sangria with citrus and fresh herbs can be both easy to prepare and deliciously uplifting, making the meal feel special and complete.

Empanadas De Viento History

The cultural origins of Empanadas De Viento are deeply rooted in Ecuadorian street food traditions, where the aroma of frying dough mingles with the lively sounds of bustling markets. This dish is a great example of how Ecuadorians have embraced the art of quick, delicious snacks that are both easy to share and deeply satisfying. The recipe reflects a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, creating a food that is as much about community as it is about flavor. The best part is the way these empanadas evoke memories of family gatherings, where laughter and the scent of sweet, cheesy filling fill the air, making every bite a celebration of Ecuador's vibrant culture.
Over time, the recipe for Empanadas De Viento has evolved, adapting to the changing tastes and fast-paced lifestyles of modern Ecuadorians. While the traditional approach remains beloved, with its pillowy dough and gooey cheese, contemporary cooks have found ways to make the process more efficient and healthy. Some opt for baking instead of frying, offering a lighter, yet still delicious, alternative that retains the empanada's signature texture. The evolution of this dish shows how a good recipe can be both timeless and flexible, allowing for quick preparation without sacrificing the great flavors that make it a staple.
Regional adaptations have given Empanadas De Viento a unique place in Ecuador's culinary landscape. In the highlands, you might find them dusted with sugar for a sweet finish, while coastal regions sometimes add a hint of local herbs for a fresh twist. Each area puts its own spin on the classic, proving that the best dishes are those that invite creativity and personal touch. These regional variations ensure that every empanada offers a new sensory experience, from the crisp snap of the pastry to the warm, melty center, making it an easy favorite for anyone seeking a fast, satisfying, and healthy snack.

Healthy Empanadas De Viento Tips

To make your homemade Empanadas De Viento recipe healthier while preserving their authentic, delicious flavor, focus on a few key health-driven adjustments. Swap traditional white flour for whole wheat or a gluten-free blend to boost fiber and nutrients without sacrificing the light, airy texture that makes these Ecuadorian treats so irresistible. For the filling, use reduced-fat cheese or a plant-based alternative, which melts beautifully and delivers that signature gooeyness, while cutting down on saturated fat. Baking instead of frying is a simple, easy way to reduce oil and calories, yet still achieve a golden, crisp exterior that shatters delicately with each bite. Incorporate fresh herbs and a touch of spice to elevate the aroma and add depth, making every mouthful of this best-loved recipe both tasty and health-conscious.
The result is a quick, perfect snack that fills the kitchen with the inviting scent of warm dough and savory cheese, all while supporting your health goals. With these tips, you'll discover how to make Empanadas De Viento that are not only authentic and homemade but also align with a balanced lifestyle. The ingredients come together in a harmonious blend, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, proving that the best, most delicious recipes can also be the healthiest.

About Empanadas De Viento Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy a taste of South America, look no further than this delicious Empanadas De Viento recipe! These Ecuadorian treats are famous for their crispy, golden exterior and gooey, cheesy filling. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of homemade empanadas that are both easy and quick to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just learning how to make these tasty pastries, this recipe is perfect for anyone craving a flavorful snack or appetizer.
What makes this Empanadas De Viento recipe truly stand out is its combination of easy steps and authentic flavors. The secret to the best empanadas lies in using fresh ingredients and following a few key tips to ensure your dough is light and your cheese filling is perfectly melty. If you've ever wondered how to make these Ecuadorian delights at home, this recipe will guide you through every step, from mixing the dough to frying them to golden perfection. The result? A batch of quick, delicious, and homemade empanadas that will impress your family and friends.
Don't miss out on the chance to master this classic Ecuadorian snack! With this simple and tasty Empanadas De Viento recipe, you'll discover just how easy it is to bring the flavors of Ecuador into your own kitchen. Follow our tips for the perfect empanada every time, and enjoy the best homemade treat that's sure to become a favorite. Whether you're making them for a party or a cozy night in, these empanadas are the ultimate answer to your cravings for something delicious, authentic, and unforgettable!

Empanadas De Viento Story

The memory opens with the kitchen alive in a symphony of laughter and anticipation, sunlight streaming through the window and casting golden patterns on the tiled floor. The air is thick with the promise of something delicious, a scent that lingers and teases, making my stomach flutter with excitement. My grandmother's hands move with practiced grace, her eyes twinkling as she shares the best stories, each one a secret ingredient in her recipe for joy. The moment feels suspended, a snapshot of pure contentment, where the world outside fades and only the warmth of family remains.
There is a great sense of togetherness as we gather around the table, each of us eager to claim our share. The first bite is a revelation, a quick burst of flavor that dances across the palate and leaves a trail of happiness in its wake. The texture is both comforting and surprising, a contrast that makes every mouthful feel like a new discovery. Even now, the memory of that aroma-rich and inviting-brings back the feeling of being safe and cherished, as if every worry could be soothed by something so simple and good.
Years later, I still chase that feeling, searching for a healthy balance between nostalgia and the demands of a fast-paced life. The recipe remains easy to recall, not just in steps but in the emotions it stirs. Each time I recreate it, I am transported back to that kitchen, to the laughter and the love, and I am reminded that some flavors are timeless. The experience is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of connection, a delicious reminder that the best moments are often the ones we savor together.