Empanadas, history and recipes

Empanadas are also known as pastries or turnovers (in some Latin American countries). Their origin is as ancient as bread (2,500 years B.C.), and they were born in Persia. Experts highlight that it is very likely that the start of this culinary tradition was due to the harsh climate of its origin, the heat of the desert that forced people to invent a way to protect food from exposure to the elements; spices and condiments not only make them much more pleasant to the taste but also allow for better preservation and help with digestion in many cases. Empanadas are a type of food that has its advantages, as their dough made with flour and water, sometimes with whole wheat flour, in some cases with fat (lard), and in others with eggs or everything together, allows for all kinds of fillings, sweet and savory, sometimes combined. Thus, we have empanadas with all types of meats, fish, seafood, vegetables, cheeses, sweets, combining nuts with meats, cheeses, sweets, vegetables, and anything else you can think of; the imagination knows no limits. There are very traditional ones and very fanciful ones. These are ideal for hosting a large number of guests without much work and are adaptable to all tastes; they can be baked, fried, or even grilled. Empanada Recipes Here are some recipes to prepare empanadas at home easily and that are delicious for any occasion. (we recommend clicking on the recipe title to see more details) Cherry Empanadas These delicious puff pastry empanadas are filled with a cherry compote with orange liqueur and served with vanilla ice cream. Apple Empanadas Delicious and easy apple empanadas made with puff pastry filled with apple, apricot jam, cinnamon, and pine nuts. Argentinian Empanadas A recipe for the traditional Argentine empanada. Plantain and Chocolate Empanadas Delicious homemade empanadas filled with plantain and served with a chocolate sauce. Mini Chistorra Empanadas Delicious chistorra empanadas with Oaxaca cheese and served with chimichurri. Creole Empanadas These empanadas are delicious because they are made with ground sirloin, bell pepper, olives, and plums. Serve them with chimichurri and mint jelly. Perfect to take cold on a picnic day or to send as lunch for the kids. Seafood Empanadas Delicious seafood empanadas for those who enjoy these seafood delicacies.   To discover more homemade empanada recipes, click here.