Empada de Carne Seca com Abóbora
Dried beef empada with pumpkin.
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, savory pies, have roots in Portuguese cuisine and were brought to Brazil during colonization. Carne seca (dried, salted beef) has been a staple in the Brazilian sertão (backlands) for centuries due to its preservation qualities. Pumpkin, a native ingredient, was integrated over time, reflecting the fusion of European and Indigenous ingredients.
Empada de Carne Seca com Abóbora represents a blending of culinary traditions and is often associated with family gatherings and festive occasions, especially in regions where both carne seca and pumpkin are readily available.
Regional Variations
Different regions in Brazil may have their own variations on the recipe, using different types of pumpkin, adding other vegetables, or using different spices. Some may use requeijão (a type of creamy cheese) to further enrich the filling.
Festive Food
Empadas are frequently served at parties, celebrations, and family meals, especially during holidays like Christmas or regional festivals. Their individual portion size makes them ideal for serving a crowd.
Comfort Food
The combination of savory meat and sweet pumpkin nestled in a flaky crust makes this empada a popular comfort food, reminiscent of home-cooked meals and family traditions.
The dish offers a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile, balancing the saltiness of the dried beef with the sweetness of pumpkin.
The flavor is complex, featuring the intense, salty, and umami-rich flavor of carne seca. The pumpkin adds a creamy sweetness and vegetal note that complements the beef. The crust, often made with lard or butter, contributes a rich, flaky texture and flavor. Aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs provide depth.
Preparing Carne Seca
Properly desalting the carne seca is crucial. Soak it in water for several hours, changing the water frequently, until the saltiness is reduced to your liking. Shred or dice the beef finely after cooking.
Pumpkin Preparation
Roasting the pumpkin before adding it to the filling enhances its sweetness and flavor. Ensure the pumpkin is cooked until soft and can be easily mashed.
Crust Perfection
Use cold ingredients when making the crust to ensure a flaky texture. Don't overwork the dough; mix it just until it comes together. Chill the dough before rolling it out.
Seasoning
Taste and adjust the seasoning of the filling carefully. The balance of saltiness, sweetness, and spice is essential. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to complement the pumpkin.
Explore additional Empada dishes and restaurants
Explore EmpadaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Goiânia.
Explore GoiâniaLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Brazil.
Explore Brazil