Empanadas Venezolanas

Empanadas Venezolanas Recipe: A Delightful Culinary Journey

Empanadas are a beloved staple in Venezolanas cuisine, cherished for their crispy golden crust and flavorful fillings. These tasty treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or just a comforting snack. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the steps to create authentic Empanadas Venezolanas that will surely become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients for Empanadas Venezolanas :

For the Dough:

• 2 cups precooked cornmeal (Harina P.A.N. is a popular brand)
• 2 ½ cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef or shredded chicken
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 cup grated cheese (optional)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil

• Preparation Time
  30minutes
• Cooking Time
  40 minutes
• Serves
  6 adults
• Difficulty
  Easy

Instructions of Empanadas Venezolanas:

Making the Dough :

• Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the precooked cornmeal, warm water, salt, and vegetable oil. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth, pliable dough.
• Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it become more elastic and easier to work with.

Preparing the Filling :

• Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent and the vegetables are soft.
• Add the Protein: If using ground beef, add it to the skillet and cook until browned. If using shredded chicken, add it to the sautéed vegetables. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes to let the flavors blend harmoniously.
• Optional Add-Ins: If desired, add chopped fresh cilantro and grated cheese to the filling mixture. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.

Assembling the Empanadas :

• Divide the Dough: Take a small ball of dough (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper. Flatten it into a circle, roughly 6 inches across.
• Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of the dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing the empanada difficult.
• Seal the Edges: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp with a fork to ensure a secure seal.

Frying the Empanadas :

• Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Drain the Excess Oil: Take the empanadas out of the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any extra oil.

Serving Suggestions of Empanadas Venezolanas :

Empanadas Venezolanas are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve them with a side of guasacaca (Venezuelan avocado sauce) or a simple salsa for an extra burst of flavor. These empanadas can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or paired with a light salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas Venezolanas :

• Consistency is Key: The dough should be smooth and pliable. If it’s too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more cornmeal.
• Seal Well: Ensure the edges are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
• Experiment with Fillings: While beef and chicken are traditional, feel free to get creative with your fillings. Cheese, beans, and vegetables are great alternatives.

Nutritional Information of Empanadas Venezolanas

Here’s an estimated nutritional information per empanada (assuming the recipe yields 12 empanadas):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 10-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 12-15 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
• Cholesterol: 30-40 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg
• Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugar: 1-2 grams

These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used, as well as the size of each empanada. Adjustments to the recipe, such as using different fillings or cooking methods, will also affect the nutritional content.

Conclusion

Making Empanadas Venezolanas at home is a delightful way to bring a taste of Venezuela to your kitchen. With their crispy exterior and flavorful fillings, these empanadas are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the process of creating these delicious treats, and don’t forget to share the joy of Venezuelan cuisine with those around you!

FAQs

Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag.

What other fillings can I use?
You can get creative with fillings! Try shredded chicken, spinach and cheese, or even sweet fillings like guava and cheese.

How do I prevent empanadas from getting soggy?
Ensure the filling is not too wet and seal the edges tightly to prevent leaks.

Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

Are empanadas gluten-free?
The traditional dough made with precooked cornmeal is gluten-free.

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