John Myers
Introduction: Argentinian Baked Chicken Empanadas
Argentinian empanadas are a popular snack or meal in Argentina, and they have gained popularity worldwide due to their delicious taste and easy preparation. Empanadas are a type of pastry that is stuffed with various fillings, and they can be baked or fried. One of the most popular types of empanadas in Argentina is chicken empanadas, which are made with chicken, potatoes, onions, and other seasonings. These empanadas are a great option for a quick meal or a snack, and they are easy to make at home or buy from a store.
History and Origin of Empanadas in Argentina
Empanadas are believed to have originated in Spain and were brought to Latin America by the Spanish colonists. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish word “empanar,” which means to wrap or coat in bread. In Argentina, empanadas have become an integral part of the country’s cuisine, and they are typically served during special occasions or festivals. Each region of Argentina has its own unique variation of empanadas, and they are often filled with ingredients that are commonly found in that region or province.
What are the Key Ingredients of Empanadas?
The dough for empanadas is typically made with flour, water, and lard, although variations may include other ingredients like baking powder or egg. The filling for empanadas can vary widely, but some of the most common ingredients include meat (usually beef or chicken), onions, potatoes, and seasonings like cumin, paprika, and oregano. Other possible ingredients for the filling include cheese, vegetables, or fruits. The dough is rolled out into circles, and the filling is placed in the center before the dough is folded over and crimped shut.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Argentinian Chicken Empanadas
To make Argentinian chicken empanadas at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into small pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large potato, peeled and chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until it forms coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until it is smooth, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent. Add the potato and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chicken back to the skillet, along with the olives, paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use a round cookie cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over and crimp the edges with a fork.
- Brush the empanadas with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Tips for Preparing Perfect Empanada Dough
To make perfect empanada dough, it’s important to use cold butter and ice water, as this will help the dough to be flaky and tender. You should also be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, and if it’s too wet, add a little more flour. It’s also a good idea to let the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out, as this will help it to be easier to work with.
Where to Find Authentic Argentinian Empanadas?
If you’re not up for making your own empanadas, you can find authentic Argentinian empanadas at many restaurants and specialty food stores. Look for places that specialize in Latin American cuisine, or check out local food festivals or markets. You can also order empanadas online from specialty food retailers.
Pros and Cons of Store-Made Empanadas
Store-made empanadas can be a convenient option when you don’t have time to make them yourself. They are often affordable and widely available, and they can be a good option for a quick meal or snack. However, store-made empanadas may not be as fresh or authentic as homemade empanadas, and the quality can vary widely depending on the retailer.
How to Warm Up Store-Made Empanadas?
To warm up store-made empanadas, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the crust is crisp. You can also warm them up in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, although the crust may not be as crisp.
Pairing Suggestions for Argentinian Empanadas
Argentinian empanadas are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as chimichurri (a tangy parsley and garlic sauce), salsa, or hot sauce. They can also be paired with a variety of beverages, such as beer, wine, or soda. For a more authentic experience, try pairing your empanadas with a glass of Malbec wine, which is a popular wine from Argentina.
Final Verdict: Store-Made vs. Homemade Empanadas
While store-made empanadas can be a convenient option, there’s nothing quite like the taste and satisfaction of making your own empanadas from scratch. With a little practice, you can perfect your empanada-making skills and enjoy delicious, authentic Argentinian empanadas whenever you like. However, if you’re short on time or don’t feel confident in your cooking skills, store-made empanadas can be a good option. Just be sure to choose a reputable retailer and pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for the best experience.
