Ingredients

2 lbs yellow cornmeal ( Goya brand )
3 -4 cups chicken broth ( for use with the dry corn meal )
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons cassava meal ( yuca starch )
1 tablespoon ground cumin ( optional for the masa )
2 bunches green onions , cut into 1/4 bits
2 medium tomatoes , chopped into small chunks
1 bunch fresh cilantro , finely chopped
1/4 1/4 cup margarine or 4 tablespoons of your favorite cooking oil
2 cups cooked white rice
3 medium potatoes , boiled and cut into 1/2 inch chunks
2 lbs hamburger meat
2 tablespoons garlic powder ( or minced garlic )
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon salt ( I prefer Kosher salt )
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Empanadas are a staple food in Colombia and can be found in street food vendors and restaurants. They are typically served as an appetizer or snack, but can also be eaten as a main course. Empanadas are also popular in other Latin American countries, with variations in the fillings and cooking methods. This recipe features a traditional filling of potatoes, vegetables, and hamburger meat wrapped in a yellow cornmeal masa dough and baked until crispy. The result is a handheld pastry that is savory, satisfying, and delicious.

Instructions

1.Boil and cut the potatoes into small chunks and set aside.
2.For the masa, mix together the cornmeal, chicken broth, brown sugar, cassava meal, and ground cumin in a large mixing bowl, then let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
3.Saute the onions, tomatoes, and cilantro in a frying pan with the margarine or oil for about 5 minutes, then set aside.
4.Brown the hamburger meat in a separate skillet, then drain off any excess fat.
5.Mix the potatoes, sauteed vegetables, hamburger meat, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper together in a mixing bowl.
6.Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7.Scoop about ¼ cup of the masa onto the parchment paper, then flatten it into a disc shape.
8.Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the masa disc and fold the edges over to seal it.
9.Brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash made with 1 beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of water.
10.Bake the empanadas for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

PROS

Empanadas are a popular appetizer in Latin American cuisine and are versatile enough to be filled with any ingredients of your choice.

They can be made in advance and reheated for convenience.

CONS

The traditional masa dough is made with yellow cornmeal, which can be difficult to find outside of Latin American supermarkets.

Empanadas can be high in calories and fat depending on the filling and cooking method.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Empanadas may provide some health benefits depending on the filling ingredients used.
Lean protein, like chicken or turkey, can aid in muscle development and provide sustained energy.
Vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and cilantro are high in vitamins and minerals that can support immune health.

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