Empanadas(Ecuadorian Meat Turnover)
Ecuadorian empanadas feature a crispy, golden crust filled with savory seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and optional cheese, perfect for flavorful snacks or meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix egg yolks and oil together.
- Add flour and baking powder; mix well.
- Add warm water with salt dissolved in it to the flour mixture.
- Adjust with more flour or water if needed.
- Let the dough rise for at least 15 minutes, covered with a towel.
- Meanwhile, brown the ground beef and cook the chopped onion.
- Drain the cooked meat mixture.
- Cook the chopped carrots.
- Mix the cooked carrots with the ground meat and onions.
- Roll out the dough and cut into turnover-sized circles.
- Fill each circle with about a tablespoon of meat mixture.
- Seal the edges with a crimped design or press with fork tines.
- Fry the empanadas in cooking oil until golden brown, turning to cook evenly.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the meat mixture. If you want to use a different protein, shredded chicken or a plant-based option would work well. Ensure the dough is not too sticky; add flour gradually until you achieve the right consistency. Using a food processor can make mixing the dough easier and faster.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these empanadas hot with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping. They pair beautifully with a refreshing salad or a light soup. You might also enjoy them alongside 'Carne Con Papas' for a hearty meal. For a festive touch, serve with a side of pickled vegetables to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method will help retain their crispiness, unlike microwaving, which may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Empanadas(Ecuadorian Meat Turnover) contains roughly 788 calories, with 9g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 878mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the empanada dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to ensure it’s pliable.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of vegetables for a vegetarian option. If you're seeking more flavor, incorporate spices or herbs into the filling to enhance taste. Alternatively, shredded meats from dishes like 'Good And Filling' Corned Beef, Potatoes And Onion Stew can also be used.
How do I know when the empanadas are done frying?
Empanadas are done frying when they turn a golden brown color, typically taking about 3-4 minutes per side. To test, you can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough. Ensure to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).