Authentic Argentinian Vegetarian Empanadas, Three Ways (V/Vegan)
Authentic Argentinian vegetarian empanadas are a joy to make and an even bigger joy to eat - just wait until you break one of these gorgeous babies in half! NOTE: Goya makes great empanada disks, but if you cannot find them or prefer fresh, you can make your own following the recipe below.
Authentic Argentinian vegetarian empanadas are a joy to make and an even bigger joy to eat - just wait until you break one of these gorgeous babies in half! NOTE: Goya makes great empanada disks, but if you cannot find them or prefer fresh, you can make your own following the recipe below.
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- salt and pepper
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- salt & pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- the juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoons salt
- sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 onions (sliced into crescents)
- 1 cup gouda cheese (shredded)
- 1 pound mushrooms (sliced)
- 4 leaves
- 1 onion (chopped finely )
- 1 sweet potato (shredded)
- 1/2 cup lentils (cooked)
- egg wash (1 egg + 1 tsp of milk or non-dairy milk
- Carbohydrate 23.4141430852722 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 10.577017374544 g
- Fiber 0.97335974002364 g
- Protein 3.14639708729928 g
- Saturated Fat 0.809133507971482 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (90g)
- Sodium 409.777790436289 mg
- Sugar 22.4407833452486 g
- Trans Fat 0.231746465567943 g
- Calories 202 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400F.
- To make dough: Combine the flour with the salt in a large bowl. Add the oil and the water and knead until dough forms. If the dough requires, add more water. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- For onion and cheese vegetarian empanadas: preheat a large pan to medium heat. Add 2 TBs grapeseed oil. Sautee onion until it turns golden, 10 minutes. Remove from heat and season with oregano, salt & pepper. Set aside. When making empanadas, layer 1 TB of onion mixture per empanada and top with a sprinkle of cheese. Seal empanada and set aside. Repeat with remaining filling and dough.
- For mushroom and kale vegetarian empanadas: preheat a large pan to medium heat. Add 2 TBs grapeseed oil. Sautee mushrooms until they begin to brown, 10-15 minutes. Add kale and garlic, mix well to combine and sautee an additional 3 minutes. Remove from heat and season with lime, salt & pepper. Set aside. When making empanadas, layer 1 TB of mushroom & kale mixture. Seal empanada and set aside. Repeat with remaining filling and dough.
- For sweet potato and lentil vegetarian empanadas: preheat a large pan to medium heat. Add 2 TBs grapeseed oil. Sautee onion until it turns golden, 10 minutes. Add sweet potatoes, lentils and seasonings. Cook until sweet potatoes cook fully, about 15 minutes. When making empanadas, layer 1 TB sweet potato and lentil mixture per empanada. Seal empanada and set aside. Repeat with remaining filling and dough.
- When ready to bake, arrange empanadas on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush tops with egg wash, and sprinkle sesame seeds (optional). Bake until golden brown, rotating sheets halfway through, 30 to 40 minutes.
Authentic Argentinian Vegetarian Empanadas: A Culinary Adventure
As a busy professional, time is a precious commodity. Yet, I still crave delicious, homemade meals that nourish my body and soul. That's why I've fallen in love with empanadas – specifically, these incredible Argentinian vegetarian versions. They're surprisingly easy to make, even on a hectic weeknight, and the results are utterly rewarding. Forget takeout; these empanadas are a testament to the power of quick, healthy, and flavorful home cooking.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Three distinct fillings – onion and cheese, mushroom and kale, and sweet potato and lentil – cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Each bite offers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Argentina. I often make a big batch on the weekend, freeze some for later, and have a delicious, homemade lunch ready in minutes during the busy work week. It’s efficient, delicious, and surprisingly simple.
The Dough: A Foundation of Flavor
The secret to truly authentic empanadas lies in the dough. While store-bought discs are a convenient shortcut, nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own. The process is straightforward – a simple combination of flour, oil, and water – but the results are a flaky, tender crust that perfectly complements the rich fillings. Don't be intimidated by the kneading; it's a therapeutic process, and the end result is worth the effort. Once you have the dough mastered, making the empanadas themselves becomes almost second nature.
Filling Your Empanadas: A Flavor Fiesta
The filling options are endless, limited only by your imagination and the ingredients in your pantry. This recipe provides three fantastic starting points: the classic onion and cheese, a hearty mushroom and kale mix, and a sweet and savory sweet potato and lentil combination. The onion and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, the earthy mushroom and kale offers a healthier choice, and the sweet potato and lentil brings a unique, satisfying twist. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature blend of flavors, adding your own personal touch.
Baking to Perfection: A Golden-Brown Delight
The final step is baking – and this is where the magic truly happens. As the empanadas bake, their aroma fills the kitchen, a symphony of savory and sweet scents that promise a culinary delight. The golden-brown crust provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, flavorful filling. The crispy edges and warm, comforting interior make for an irresistible combination, perfect for any occasion.
Beyond the Recipe: A Celebration of Argentinian Cuisine
More than just a recipe, these Argentinian vegetarian empanadas represent a journey into the rich culinary tapestry of Argentina. They’re a testament to the country’s passion for fresh, flavorful ingredients and the art of simple, yet satisfying cooking. This recipe isn't merely about making empanadas; it’s about immersing yourself in a culture known for its warmth, vibrant traditions, and a love for good food.
These empanadas aren’t just a meal; they’re an experience. They’re a taste of home, a moment of peace amidst the chaos of daily life, and a reminder that even the simplest dishes can be filled with an abundance of flavor, love, and cultural richness. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you completely satisfied.
