Empada
Savory pie, common in Brazilian cuisine.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Empadas trace their origins to savory pies enjoyed across Europe, particularly the Iberian Peninsula. Influences from Roman and Moorish cuisine likely contributed to the development of the modern empada. The dish was then brought to Brazil during the colonial period, where it adapted to local ingredients and tastes.
Empadas hold significant cultural importance as a popular snack and comfort food, often enjoyed at parties, gatherings, and as a quick meal.
Festive Occasions
Empadas are commonly served at birthdays, christenings, and other celebratory events, showcasing their role in bringing people together.
Everyday Snack
They are also readily available at bakeries, cafes, and street vendors, making them an accessible and convenient snack option throughout the day.
Regional Variations
Different regions have their own unique empada fillings and variations, reflecting the local culinary traditions and available ingredients.
The empada offers a savory and comforting flavor profile, balanced between the rich filling and the buttery, often slightly crumbly, pastry crust.
The pastry crust, typically made with wheat flour, lard (or butter/vegetable shortening), and sometimes egg yolks, provides a rich, buttery, and slightly salty base. The filling varies widely. Chicken empadas often feature shredded chicken cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, olives, and herbs like parsley. Shrimp empadas incorporate shrimp with similar aromatics and sometimes include coconut milk for added richness. Vegetable empadas utilize a mix of vegetables such as carrots, peas, corn, and palm hearts in a creamy sauce. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, paprika, and sometimes a touch of chili for heat.
Pastry Perfection
Use cold ingredients when making the pastry to prevent the gluten from developing too much, resulting in a more tender crust. Avoid overworking the dough.
Filling Flavors
Taste and adjust the seasoning of the filling throughout the cooking process to ensure a well-balanced flavor. Allow the filling to cool slightly before filling the empadas to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Sealing and Baking
Ensure the edges of the empadas are properly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden-brown finish.
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