Shrimp Empanadas
Shrimp Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that showcases the savory flavors of shrimp encased in a flaky, golden pastry.
Originating from Latin America and Spain, empanadas are hand-held pastries that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a favorite in many households.
The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs creates a filling that is both satisfying and flavorful.
These empanadas can be served as a delightful appetizer, a main course, or even a party snack. They are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners.
This recipe will guide you through making the dough from scratch and preparing a flavorful shrimp filling that will impress your family and friends. Whether baked or fried, Shrimp Empanadas are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
For the Empanada Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
For the Shrimp Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Oil for frying (if frying)
How to Make Shrimp Empanadas
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and mix using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.
Make the Shrimp Filling:
While the dough is chilling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and fold in the fresh cilantro and lime juice. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
Assemble the Empanadas:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake the empanadas. If frying, heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a small bowl, cut out circles of dough (approximately 4-5 inches in diameter).
Place a spoonful of shrimp filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake or Fry the Empanadas:
To Bake: Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
To Fry: Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve:
Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve with lime wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
Chef’s Note:
Shrimp Empanadas are incredibly versatile and can be customized to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add ingredients like cheese, corn, or black beans for additional flavor and texture.
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought empanada dough or even pie crust, though homemade dough provides a fresher taste and texture. When frying, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature to achieve a crispy exterior while preventing the filling from becoming overcooked.
These empanadas also freeze well. After assembling, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. You can bake or fry them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Vitamin A: 15% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 25% of DV
- Calcium: 4% of DV
- Iron: 10% of DV
Shrimp Empanadas offer a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making them a satisfying meal option. The shrimp provide essential amino acids and minerals, while the avocado (if used) adds fiber and healthy monounsaturated fats. With a variety of colorful vegetables in the filling, these empanadas also contribute vitamins and antioxidants to your diet.
In conclusion, Shrimp Empanadas are a delicious and fun dish that is sure to impress your guests. With their flaky crust and flavorful filling, they are a delightful addition to any meal or celebration. Enjoy the process of making these empanadas, and savor every bite of this tasty culinary creation!
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