How to Make Crispy Fried Empanada Dough

Empanadas are a popular dish in Latin American cuisine that is loved all around the world. These little pockets of flavor are made with dough and filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, and cheese. One of the crucial components of an empanada is the dough, and getting it right is essential for the perfect result. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to make fried empanada dough, step by step.

Empanada dough is a simple mixture of flour, salt, water, and fat. You can use any type of fat, such as butter or shortening, but the most commonly used one is lard. The dough is kneaded until it is smooth and elastic, then divided into small balls that are rolled out into circles and filled. Once filled, the dough is folded over and crimped before being fried to golden perfection. Keep reading for more detailed instructions on how to make fried empanada dough at home.

Ingredients for Fried Empanada Dough

Before we dive into the process of making fried empanada dough, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the necessary ingredients. The following are the ingredients you will need to make fried empanada dough:

1. Flour

The type of flour you use will determine the texture of your empanada dough. All-purpose flour is the most common choice, and it can be found in grocery stores. However, if you want a more authentic and slightly denser texture, try using masa harina flour.

2. Baking Powder

Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, giving the dough its airy texture. Without it, the dough will be flat and dense.

3. Salt

Salt is an essential ingredient because it adds flavor to the dough. Use just enough to enhance the taste, but not too much to overpower the other ingredients.

4. Butter or Shortening

Butter or shortening is what gives the dough its flakiness. While both are good options, using shortening will create a more tender and fluffy dough.

5. Water

Water is an essential ingredient that binds all the ingredients together. Use cold water for better results.

6. Egg

An egg helps to give the dough a richer flavor and color. It also acts as a binding agent, so it keeps the dough together.

7. Vinegar

Adding a tablespoon of vinegar to the dough will make it more pliable, and it will prevent the dough from becoming too elastic.

8. Sugar

Sugar is an optional ingredient. If you prefer a sweeter dough, add a tablespoon of sugar to the mix.

9. Filling

Empanadas are known for their delicious fillings. Whether sweet or savory, choose a filling that complements the dough. Some popular filling options include meat, vegetables, cheese, and fruit.

10. Oil for frying

Finally, you will need oil for frying. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, for best results. You will need enough oil to submerge the empanadas during frying.

Now that you have a good understanding of the ingredients needed to make fried empanada dough, let’s delve into the process of making it.

Preparing the Empanada Dough

Empanadas are delicious pastries that are loved all over the world. These delightful treats are easy to make and can be filled with just about anything, from beef to chicken to vegetables. However, the key to the perfect empanada is in the dough. In this section, we will guide you through the steps of making the perfect dough for fried empanadas.

Ingredients

The first thing you need to do is gather all the ingredients required for making the empanada dough. You will need the following:

• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup of ice-cold water

Mixing the Dough

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it is time to mix the dough. Begin by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl. Add the salt and mix well. Cut the butter into small chunks and add them to the flour mixture. Using your hands, rub the mixture together until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and then add the ice-cold water. Mix well.

Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the egg mixture into the well. Using a fork, mix the egg mixture into the flour mixture until everything is well combined. Use your hands to bring the dough together in a ball.

Kneading the Dough

Once the dough has come together, it is time to knead it. Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for about five minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Resting the Dough

After kneading, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This will help relax the dough and make it easier to roll out.

Rolling out the Dough

After resting, remove the dough from the plastic wrap and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/8th-inch thickness.

Cutting the Dough

Using a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass, cut the dough into circles. The size of the circles will depend on how big you want your empanadas to be. Typically, a 4 to 6-inch diameter is standard.

Filling the Dough

Once you have cut the dough into circles, it is time to fill them with your desired filling. Spoon a small amount of filling onto one half of the circle. Be careful not to overfill the empanadas as they will burst during frying.

Closing the Dough

Fold the other half of the circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Using a fork, crimp the edges of the dough to seal the empanadas.

Frying the Empanadas

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the empanadas to the oil, a few at a time. Fry the empanadas until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serving the Empanadas

Once the empanadas are fried, drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. And there you have it! This is how you make the perfect fried empanada dough. Enjoy!

Ingredients for Fried Empanada Dough

Empanadas are a favourite dish in many countries around the world. The dish involves stuffing the dough with various fillings, such as cheese, chicken, beef, vegetables, etc. Here are some of the ingredients that you will need to make perfect fried empanada dough.

Instructions for Fried Empanada Dough

Making empanada dough is simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s how you can make your own empanada dough in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the egg, cold water, and vinegar together until they are fully combined. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients, and stir it until you get a thick dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface, and continue kneading it until it becomes soft and elastic. This should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Rest the Dough

Once your dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This will help it to relax, and make it easier for you to roll it out.

Step 5: Cut and Fry the Dough

After the dough has rested, cut it into small portions and roll it out to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Fill the dough with your desired filling, fold it into half-moon shapes, and seal the edges using a fork. Then, heat the vegetable shortening or lard in a skillet or deep-fryer, and fry the empanadas until they turn golden brown.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making fried empanada dough is not rocket science, and with these simple steps, you can make your own crispy and delicious empanadas in the comfort of your home. With the right ingredients and a bit of practice, you’ll be able to create empanadas that will be the envy of all your friends and family. So why not give it a try today and enjoy the taste of authentic empanadas that you’ve made yourself?

Time to Fry Up Some Delicious Empanadas!

I hope this article has given you the inspiration and confidence to make your own fried empanada dough at home. Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can customize and experiment with ingredients to suit your taste. So go ahead and let your creativity fly! Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to visit us again for more exciting kitchen adventures. Bon appétit!