Puerto Rican Cheese Empanada Recipe
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Description
Empanadas are a traditional snack food in Puerto Rico, usually served with hot sauce or ketchup. These cheese empanadas are a popular variation, and are a great option for a party or potluck. They are easy to make and can be served hot or cold.Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is roughly 45 minutes.Cook Time
Cooking time for these empanadas is around 15 minutes.Ingredients
For the dough:- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, chilled
- 3/4 cup cold water
- 2 cups grated cheese (cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup finely diced ham
- 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Method
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. 2. Cut in the chilled butter and vegetable shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 3. Add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. 4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. 5. On a floured surface, roll each ball of dough into a 6-inch circle. 6. In a separate bowl, mix together the grated cheese, diced ham, chopped olives, red bell pepper, onion, tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. 7. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the filling onto one half of each dough circle. 8. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. 9. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 10. Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg. 11. Bake in a preheated 375-degree oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. 12. Serve hot or cold.Notes
These empanadas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat, simply place them in a 350-degree oven until heated through.Nutrition Info
This recipe makes 12 empanadas. Each empanada contains approximately:- Calories: 310
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
Recipes FAQ
What other fillings can I use for empanadas? Empanadas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including beef, chicken, vegetables, and cheese. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique filling. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out. Can I freeze the empanadas? Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To bake, simply place the frozen empanadas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 375-degree oven for 20-25 minutes.Recipe Tips
- Be sure to seal the edges of the empanadas well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- You can use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas for a decorative touch.
- If you don't have a food processor, you can cut in the butter and shortening with a pastry cutter or two knives.
- For a spicier filling, you can add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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