Air Fryer Empanadas
You’ll love the taste of air fryer empanadas! These savory pastries are filled with your favorite ingredients and cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
We’ll show you how to achieve a golden brown crust and a mouthwatering filling with a few simple steps.
Get ready to indulge in a quick and easy snack that will leave you wanting more.
Origins
Tracing back to ancient times, empanadas have a long history that has been spread across cultures. Thought to have originated in Persia, where they were called ‘samboosak,’ empanadas were spread to different areas through trade and exploration.
During the Moorish rule in Spain, they gained popularity and were introduced to Latin America by Spanish colonizers. Every region has its own variations and fillings, illustrating the diverse culinary traditions.
Empanadas are widely liked for their versatility and portability, making them a popular snack in many countries. Whether you favor meat, cheese, or vegetable fillings, the savory and crispy taste of empanadas remains a delight that can be enjoyed in different ways.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Empanadas
-1 package of store bought empanada dough
-1/2 cup of your favorite filling (ex. ground beef, chicken, cheese, etc.)
-1/4 cup of diced onion
-1/4 cup of diced bell peppers
-1 teaspoon of ground cumin
-1 teaspoon of garlic powder
-1/4 teaspoon of salt
-1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
-1 tablespoon of olive oil
-1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Making air fryer empanadas for a deliciously crispy snack is easy with these steps.
Begin by combining your choice of meat, vegetables, and seasonings in a bowl to form the filling.
Next, roll out the empanada dough and cut it into circles with a round cutter.
Place the filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
Fold the dough into a half-moon shape and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat the empanadas with cooking spray.
Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade empanadas!
Note: Cooking times may vary with different air fryer models, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Tips for Cooking
To ensure perfectly cooked empanadas, follow these simple steps.
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Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature. This will ensure that the empanadas cook evenly and have a crispy exterior.
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Oil the empanadas lightly before placing them in the air fryer. This will help them achieve a golden brown color.
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Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leave some space between the empanadas to allow for the hot air to circulate, ensuring that they cook evenly.
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Halfway through the cooking time, flip the empanadas to make sure both sides are crispy and browned.
With these tips, you can enjoy perfect and delicious empanadas every time.
Final Thoughts
The satisfaction of enjoying perfectly cooked and delicious empanadas is a testament to the versatility and convenience of using an air fryer. Air frying ensures the empanadas come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the process is quick and efficient.
The air fryer also eliminates the need for excessive oil, making it a more economical and practical choice. With its easy-to-use features and consistent results, the air fryer is an invaluable tool for creating delectable empanadas without the hassle of traditional frying methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Calories Are in an Air Fryer Empanada?
You’re curious about the calorie content of an air fryer empanada. It varies depending on the ingredients and serving size. Generally, each empanada has between 200-400 calories, but it’s best to consult the recipe to get an exact number.
Can I Freeze Air Fryer Empanadas Before Cooking Them?
Yes, it is possible to freeze air fryer empanadas prior to cooking them. This will help keep them fresh. Make sure to seal them securely in a freezer bag or airtight container.
What Is the Best Dipping Sauce to Serve With Air Fryer Empanadas?
Serve your air fryer empanadas with a spicy salsa for a flavorful kick. The salsa compliments the crispy exterior and savory filling perfectly. Make sure you have plenty of napkins on hand for a mess-free experience!
Can I Use Puff Pastry Instead of Empanada Dough in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can substitute puff pastry for empanada dough in the air fryer. This will create a lighter, flakier crust. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Long Do Air Fryer Empanadas Stay Fresh After Cooking?
Once cooked, air fryer empanadas can stay fresh for 2-3 days if stored properly. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Enjoy!
