Is baking empanadas the healthier alternative? find out here!
What To Know
- Baked empanadas are just as flavorful and satisfying as their fried counterparts, but they are much healthier and easier to make.
- Simply place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven.
- Baked empanadas are just as flavorful and satisfying as their fried counterparts, but they are much healthier and easier to make.
- To reheat, thaw the empanadas overnight in the refrigerator and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Yes, you can! Baking empanadas is a great way to enjoy this delicious dish without the added fat and calories of frying. Baked empanadas are just as flavorful and satisfying as their fried counterparts, but they are much healthier and easier to make.
Benefits of Baking Empanadas
There are several benefits to baking empanadas instead of frying:
- Healthier: Baked empanadas are lower in fat and calories than fried empanadas. This is because they are not cooked in oil, which adds a significant amount of unhealthy fats to the dish.
- Easier to make: Baking empanadas is much easier than frying them. There is no need to heat up oil or worry about splattering. Simply place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven.
- More convenient: Baked empanadas can be made ahead of time and reheated later. This makes them a great option for busy families or people who are short on time.
How to Bake Empanadas
Baking empanadas is easy! Here are the steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
5. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Baking Empanadas
Here are a few tips for baking empanadas:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into circles. This will help to prevent the dough from tearing when you fold it over the filling.
- Crimp the edges of the empanadas well to seal them. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Brush the empanadas with an egg wash before baking. This will help them to brown evenly.
- Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations on Baked Empanadas
There are many different ways to make baked empanadas. You can use different types of dough, filling, and toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Dough: You can use a variety of different doughs to make empanadas, including flour tortillas, puff pastry, and pie dough.
- Filling: The possibilities for fillings are endless! You can use meat, seafood, vegetables, cheese, or a combination of ingredients.
- Toppings: You can top your empanadas with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped onions, or chopped cilantro.
Wrap-Up
Baking empanadas is a great way to enjoy this delicious dish without the added fat and calories of frying. Baked empanadas are just as flavorful and satisfying as their fried counterparts, but they are much healthier and easier to make. So next time you are craving empanadas, give baking them a try!
FAQ
Q: Can I use any type of dough to make baked empanadas?
A: Yes, you can use a variety of different doughs to make empanadas, including flour tortillas, puff pastry, and pie dough.
Q: What are some popular fillings for baked empanadas?
A: Some popular fillings for baked empanadas include ground beef, shredded chicken, cheese, and vegetables.
Q: Can I freeze baked empanadas?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked empanadas for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer the empanadas to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the empanadas overnight in the refrigerator and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
