Simple Empanada Dough

My Go-To Empanada Dough: Simple, Reliable, and Delicious

As a busy working mom, I don't have time for complicated recipes. I need things that are quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious. That’s why I’ve perfected this simple empanada dough recipe. It’s my secret weapon for whipping up a batch of savory empanadas on a busy weeknight or a fun weekend afternoon with the kids. Forget those fussy, butter-based doughs that demand precise temperatures and careful handling. This recipe is incredibly forgiving. You can even get the kids involved – measuring ingredients and helping to mix the dough is a great way to spend quality time together. The slightly dense texture might not be as flaky as some other recipes, but that's okay! It's perfectly sturdy enough to hold all those delicious fillings without tearing, which is my biggest concern when making empanadas.

I discovered this recipe after years of experimenting with different empanada doughs. I’ve tried countless recipes, from those passed down through generations in my family to the trendy ones I find online. I always struggled with the delicate balance of ingredients and precise techniques needed to make a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth dough. Often, my efforts resulted in a dough that was either too dry, too sticky, or simply wouldn’t hold its shape. This recipe changed everything. It's incredibly easy to make, even if you're a novice baker. The secret, I believe, lies in its simplicity. There's something magical about letting the basic ingredients combine and do their thing without too much interference. It’s surprisingly resistant to those little kitchen mishaps that can ruin other dough recipes. I’ve even made it successfully on hot summer days with no ill effects!

Why I love this recipe:

• Foolproof: This recipe is so easy to follow, even a beginner can master it. The forgiving nature means you don’t have to worry about being too precise.
• Versatile: This dough is perfect for any type of empanada filling you can imagine. Whether you're making savory beef empanadas or sweet cheese and guava ones, this dough will hold up beautifully.
• Time-saving: The recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The prep time is minimal, and the dough comes together easily.
• Delicious results: Despite its simplicity, the end result is delicious, with a perfectly textured crust that complements any filling.
• Adaptable: Feel free to experiment with the dough. Adding a touch of herbs or spices can create a unique flavor profile.

The best part about this recipe? It takes the stress out of empanada making! No more worrying about overworking the dough or getting the perfect texture. I can focus on the fun part: experimenting with exciting new filling combinations and sharing my empanadas with friends and family. What are your favorite empanada fillings? Let me know in the comments below!

I often use this dough to make Saltenas, which are these delicious Bolivian/Argentinian empanadas filled with meat and vegetables. They’re so flavorful and satisfying, and the dough holds up perfectly to the juicy filling. But this recipe really shines with whatever you choose to fill them with. Think spiced chicken, creamy cheese, even some sweet combinations. The possibilities are endless!

From quick weeknight meals to festive gatherings, this simple empanada dough is a true culinary workhorse in my kitchen. It's become a staple in my recipe repertoire, a testament to its ease of use and consistent deliciousness. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Step-by-step

• Mix flour, sugar, salt and achiote. Achiote may not be easy to find - try a Latino grocery.
• Beat together eggs, oil, and half a cup of water.
• Stir into the dry ingredients (i.e. the flour mixture) to form a soft yet slightly sticky dough.
• The best way to get the right amount of dough for the 15 circles we need to make is taking about the size of a golf ball for each empanada and flattening it so it lays fairly thin on a floured surface.