How to Make Galician Empanada

Galician empanada is a delightful Spanish dish that has gained popularity worldwide for its savory flavors and unique pastry crust. Originating from the region of Galicia in Spain, this traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, capturing the essence of Spanish cuisine. 

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with a mouthwatering Galician empanada. This comprehensive guide will not only teach you how to make it from scratch but also provide insights into its heritage, insider tricks, suitable side dishes, and recommended storage techniques.

How to Make Galician Empanada

Ingredients 

To make a delicious Galician empanada, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, diced
• ½ cup cold water

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Now that we have gathered the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation process of Galician empanada:

Step 1

Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold diced butter and incorporate it into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2

Gradually add cold water to the mixture, a little at a time, and knead until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3

While the dough is resting, let’s prepare the filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced red and green bell peppers to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and cooked through.

Step 5

Sprinkle paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the meat mixture, stirring well to combine the flavors. 

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

Step 7

Now, it’s time to assemble the empanada. Divide the dough in half and roll out one portion on a floured surface into a circle of about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8

Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll out the second portion of the dough into a similar-sized circle and place it on top of the filling.

Step 9

Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the empanada. You can also fold the edges over and create a decorative pattern.

Step 10

Using a sharp knife, make a few small incisions on the top of the empanada to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 11

Bake the Galician empanada in the preheated oven for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.

Step 12

Once baked, remove the empanada from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into portions. Serve warm or at room temperature.

The Origin of Galician Empanada

Galician empanada traces its roots back to the beautiful region of Galicia in Northwestern Spain. This dish has been a staple in Galician cuisine for centuries, showcasing the culinary heritage of the area. 

Originally, empanadas were made as a convenient and portable meal for farmers and shepherds. The dish has since evolved into a beloved delicacy, enjoyed by people across the globe.

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Secret Tips for Perfect Galician Empanada

One of the secrets to a perfect Galician empanada lies in the preparation of its flaky and delicious crust. Here are some tips to help you achieve a crust that will melt in your mouth:

Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter or margarine is cold when incorporating it into the dough. Cold fat helps create air pockets, resulting in a flakier texture.

Resting Time: Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This resting period relaxes the gluten and helps prevent the crust from becoming tough.

Thin Dough: Roll out the dough thinly to achieve the ideal balance between the filling and the crust. A thin crust ensures that the empanada holds together while allowing the flavors of the filling to shine.

Accompaniments and Storage Tips

Galician empanada is delicious on its own, but it can be accompanied by a variety of dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Green Salad: Serve a fresh green salad on the side to add a refreshing element to the meal. The empanada’s rich flavors pair well with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Garlic Aioli: Prepare a homemade garlic aioli or use store-bought for dipping. The creamy and garlicky sauce complements the empanada and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Tomato Salsa: Create a vibrant tomato salsa with ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of chili. The salsa’s tanginess balances the richness of the empanada.

Proper Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to prepare Galician empanada in advance, proper storage is crucial to maintain its quality. Follow these steps to store and reheat your empanada:

• Allow the empanada to cool completely after baking.
• Once cooled, wrap the empanada tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.
• Store the empanada in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Making a Galician empanada is a delightful culinary adventure that allows you to experience the rich flavors of Spanish cuisine. By following this traditional recipe and incorporating the secret tips provided, you’ll create a mouthwatering empanada with a flaky crust and a delectable filling. By visiting https://successrice.com/recipes/spanish-rice/  you’ll have access to their delicious Spanish Rice recipe and a wide range of other delightful rice recipes. Explore their collection, get inspired, and add a touch of Spanish flair to your meals.

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