Authentic Mexican Dinner Empanadas with Spicy Salsa
Empanadas are a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, combining flaky pastry with a variety of delicious fillings. Authentic Mexican dinner empanadas filled with savory ingredients and complemented by spicy salsa make for a perfect meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.
To prepare authentic Mexican dinner empanadas, you’ll need to focus on both the dough and the filling. The dough is traditionally made from flour, water, and a bit of salt, creating a soft yet crispy pastry. The filling can vary widely, but common ingredients include cheese, meats, vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients for the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cold water
Ingredients for the Filling
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken or beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Spicy Salsa Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1-2 jalapeños, depending on your heat preference
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Preparation Steps
1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add cold water, kneading until the dough is smooth and pliable. Cover with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the chicken or beef with cheese, onions, bell peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined to create a delightful filling.
3. Shape the Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a large cookie cutter or a glass. Place about a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
4. Bake the Empanadas: Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg) for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
5. Make the Spicy Salsa: For the salsa, blend the tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a blender or food processor until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors and heat to your liking.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the hot empanadas with a generous side of spicy salsa for dipping. Pair them with a refreshing Mexican beverage like horchata or agua fresca, and you’ll have a delightful authentic Mexican dinner experience that will impress family and friends alike.
Enjoy the rich flavors and textures that these authentic Mexican dinner empanadas offer, and make them a regular feature at your dinner table!