How To Make Pork Empanadas Filipino Style – The Easy Way!

When it comes to Filipino cuisine, empanadas are a beloved delicacy that tantalizes taste buds with their savory fillings and flaky crust. If you’re yearning to recreate this classic dish at home, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to craft mouthwatering pork empanadas the Filipino way.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the Pork Filling:

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped celery

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
• Add the butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
• Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Pork Filling:

• In a large skillet, brown the ground pork over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
• Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
• Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cumin.
• Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
• Add the green peas, carrots, and celery and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
• Place a heaping spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each circle.
• Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

4. Bake the Empanadas:

• Place the empanadas on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
• Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this will make it tough.
• Let the dough rest before rolling it out to prevent it from shrinking.
• Seal the empanadas tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Bake the empanadas until golden brown for a crispy exterior.

Variations

• Add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms.
• Use different types of meat, such as chicken, beef, or seafood.
• Make the filling spicy by adding chili peppers or hot sauce.
• Serve the empanadas with dipping sauces, such as vinegar, soy sauce, or ketchup.

Benefits of Making Pork Empanadas Filipino Style

• It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• It’s a great way to use up leftover pork.
• It’s a relatively inexpensive dish to make.
• It’s a fun and easy activity to do with family and friends.

Conclusion

With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to master the art of making pork empanadas the Filipino way. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these step-by-step instructions and tips will lead you to culinary success. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on this flavorful adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the empanadas and freeze them unbaked for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Q: Can I use a different type of flour for the dough?
A: Yes, you can use bread flour, pastry flour, or a combination of both. However, all-purpose flour is the most common and will yield good results.

Q: How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
A: The empanadas are done baking when they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of an empanada. If it comes out clean, the empanadas are done.