Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, stirring with a fork until dough forms a ball.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch circles using a biscuit cutter.
5. In a medium bowl, combine corn, cheese, bell pepper, cilantro, garlic powder, and cumin.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold dough over filling, pressing edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet and brush with melted butter.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes 12 empanadas
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Vegetable shortening can be replaced with butter or margarine.
- Cheddar cheese can be replaced with any other type of cheese.
- Red bell pepper can be replaced with green bell pepper.
- Fresh cilantro can be replaced with dried cilantro.
Variations:
- For a spicier empanada, add 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder to the filling.
- For a sweeter empanada, add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the filling.
- For a vegetarian empanada, omit the cheese and add 1/4 cup of diced mushrooms to the filling.
Tips and Tricks:
- To prevent the empanadas from sticking to the baking sheet, lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray.
- To keep the empanadas from drying out, brush them with melted butter before baking.
Storage Instructions:
Empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Empanadas can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or in the microwave for 1 minute.
Presentation Ideas:
Empanadas can be served with a side of sour cream or guacamole.
Garnishes:
Empanadas can be garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or diced red bell pepper.
Pairings:
Empanadas can be paired with a side salad or a bowl of soup.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Empanadas can be served with a side of refried beans or Spanish rice.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a few drops of cold water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour at a time until it is the correct consistency.
Food Safety Advice:
- Always wash your hands before handling food.
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Cook the empanadas until they are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Food History:
Empanadas are a traditional dish from Latin America that have been around for centuries. They are typically filled with a variety of savory ingredients and fried or baked.
Flavor Profiles:
The flavor profile of these empanadas is savory and slightly sweet, with a hint of garlic and cumin.
Serving Suggestions:
Empanadas can be served as an appetizer or a main course. They can also be served with a variety of sauces, such as salsa or guacamole.
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Region: Argentinian