Empanadas are a popular savory pastry enjoyed throughout Latin America. These delicious snacks are enjoyed as a daily meal, appetizer, or even as party food. Empanadas can be found in many different forms and with various fillings. In this article, we’ll dive into this tasty treat and explore why it is so beloved.
The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish word “empanar,” which means to wrap or coat in bread. This thin layer of dough is then filled with a savory filling, sealed, and then baked or fried. The great thing about empanadas is that they are versatile and can be filled with almost anything. Popular fillings include meat (such as beef, chicken, or pork), cheese, vegetables, or a combination of these ingredients.
In Argentina, for example, empanadas are typically baked and filled with seasoned beef, onions, and even boiled eggs. In Chile, empanadas are fried and filled with pino, a mix of seasoned ground beef, onions, raisins, and olives. In Colombia, empanadas are made with corn dough and filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
Nowadays, you can find empanaderias, or empanada shops throughout Latin America, as well as in many cities around the world. In fact, the popularity of empanadas has even given way to fusion dishes, such as the empanada burger or the empanada pizza.
Empanadas are a delicious, satisfying, and portable snack that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. Whether you prefer your empanada baked or fried, filled with meat or veggies, there’s an empanada out there for you to savor. So next time you come across a humble-looking empanada, don’t underestimate its potential to delight your taste buds. It’s worth indulging in this quintessential Latin American treat.
