Delicious and Easy Empanadas Baked in the Oven
Empanadas are a popular dish in many Latin American countries, and for good reason. These savory pastries are filled with a variety of delicious ingredients and are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. While empanadas are often fried, baking them in the oven is a healthier and equally delicious alternative. If you’re looking to make your own batch of empanadas at home, here’s a simple and tasty recipe for baking them in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of pre-made empanada dough
- 1 pound of ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are soft. Season the mixture with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set the filling aside to cool.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Lay out the empanada dough rounds on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto the center of each round. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanadas.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the empanadas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade empanadas!
Baking empanadas in the oven is a simple and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish without the hassle of frying. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these baked empanadas are sure to be a hit. Feel free to get creative with the fillings and make a variety of flavors to suit your taste. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up some mouthwatering empanadas in the oven!
Share your thoughts and experiences on baking empanadas in the oven in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know your tips, tricks, and favorite recipes for making these delicious pastries at home.
FAQ:
What temperature should the oven be set to when baking empanadas?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking the empanadas. This temperature will ensure that the empanadas cook evenly and develop a golden brown crust.
How long should empanadas be baked in the oven?
Bake the empanadas for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking.
Should the empanadas be brushed with egg wash before baking?
Yes, brushing the empanadas with an egg wash before baking will give them a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish. Simply whisk an egg with a tablespoon of water and lightly brush it over the empanadas before placing them in the oven.
Is it necessary to place the empanadas on a baking sheet before baking?
Yes, it’s important to place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet before putting them in the oven. This will prevent them from sticking to the baking surface and make it easier to transfer them in and out of the oven.
How can I ensure that the empanadas are cooked through in the oven?
To ensure that the empanadas are fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center of one of the empanadas. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the filling is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I bake different types of empanadas together in the oven?
It’s best to bake similar types of empanadas together in the oven to ensure even cooking. If you’re baking different types, consider grouping them on separate baking sheets to prevent flavors from mixing and to accommodate different cooking times, if needed.
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