How To Cook Pork Empanada Like A Pro – Simple And Delicious Recipes To Try At Home!

Pork empanadas, a tantalizing fusion of savory flavors and flaky dough, have captivated taste buds worldwide. If you’re eager to master the art of crafting these delectable pastries, this comprehensive guide will empower you with step-by-step instructions and expert tips.

Gather Your Ingredients

To embark on this culinary journey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup cold water

• For the Filling:
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut the shortening into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture.
3. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together.
5. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground pork over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the spices are fragrant.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro.

Assemble the Empanadas

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out 12 circles of dough using a 4-inch round cutter.
4. Place a heaping tablespoon of the filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
6. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Empanadas

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
2. Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving.

Variations

• Beef Empanadas: Replace the ground pork with ground beef.
• Chicken Empanadas: Use cooked, shredded chicken instead of ground pork.
• Cheese Empanadas: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the filling.
• Vegetable Empanadas: Fill the empanadas with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or black beans.

Dipping Sauces

• Red Salsa: A classic pairing for empanadas, made with tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers.
• Green Salsa: A refreshing and tangy sauce made with tomatillos, onions, and cilantro.
• Guacamole: A creamy and flavorful dip made with avocados, onions, and tomatoes.

Tips for Success

• Use cold ingredients when making the dough to prevent it from becoming tough.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this will also make it tough.
• Crimp the edges of the empanadas well to seal them and prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Bake the empanadas until they are golden brown, as this ensures that they are cooked through.

The Perfect Ending: Savoring Your Pork Empanadas

As you bite into your freshly baked pork empanada, savor the symphony of flavors that dance upon your palate. The flaky crust, the savory filling, and the tangy dipping sauce create a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of flour to make the dough?
A: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the dough may be slightly different.

Q: How do I store leftover empanadas?
A: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze empanadas?
A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked or baked empanadas. Unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months, while baked empanadas can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.