17 Traditional Mexican Empanada Dough Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!

The Ingredients

The Flour

The key to a perfect empanada dough is using the right type of flour. In Mexico, masa harina is often used, which is a finely ground corn flour. However, if you cannot find masa harina, you can use all-purpose flour instead.

The Fat

The fat used in the dough not only adds flavor but also helps create a flaky and tender texture. Lard is the traditional choice, but you can also use vegetable shortening or butter. It is important to use cold fat, as it will create small pockets of air when mixed with the flour, resulting in a flaky crust.

The Liquid

The liquid used in the dough is what binds all the ingredients together. Traditionally, water is used, but you can also use milk or a combination of both for a richer dough. It is important to use ice-cold liquid, as it will help keep the fat cold and prevent it from melting too quickly.

The Seasonings

Lastly, the seasonings used in the dough are what give it its distinct flavor. The most common seasonings used in a traditional Mexican empanada dough are salt and sugar. However, you can also add other spices such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder to add a kick of flavor.

The Technique

The Mixing

To make the dough, mix the flour, fat, and seasonings together in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the fat into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add in the ice-cold liquid and mix until a dough forms. It is important not to overwork the dough, as it can result in a tough crust.

The Resting

Once the dough has come together, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten in the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

The Rolling

After the dough has rested, lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a bowl to cut out circles for your empanadas.

The Filling

Now that the dough is ready, you can fill it with your desired filling. Popular savory fillings include shredded chicken, ground beef, or cheese and vegetables. For sweet empanadas, you can use fillings such as fruit preserves or chocolate.

The Folding

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.

The Baking

Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and brush the tops with a beaten egg. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Conclusion

Making traditional Mexican empanada dough from scratch may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and technique, it is a simple and rewarding task. So next time you're craving some delicious empanadas, skip the store-bought dough and try making it at home. Your taste buds will thank you!