Mushroom Empanadas Recipe: A Fusion Appetizer with a Flavorful Twist
Mushroom Empanadas are a delightful fusion appetizer that combines the rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms with a perfectly crispy flour pastry. Filled with a blend of sautéed vegetables, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, these empanadas are a treat for the taste buds. You can either deep fry them for a crispy golden texture or bake them for a healthier, yet equally delicious, option. For this recipe, we’ll focus on the baked version, making it perfect for any festive season or party occasion. These empanadas are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, adding a touch of fusion cuisine to your appetizer spread.
Cuisine: Fusion
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Mushroom Empanadas
For the Crust:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/4 cups |
| Butter (Unsalted) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Chilled Water | As needed |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, grated |
| Button Mushrooms | 8, chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Parsley Leaves | 3 tablespoons, chopped |
| Basil Leaves | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| White Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Milk | For brushing |
Preparation Time: 60 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough for the Empanadas
To begin making the Mushroom Empanadas, start by preparing the dough for the pastry. Sift the all-purpose flour and add salt to it. Use a pastry blender, a fork, or a food processor to incorporate the cold, unsalted butter into the flour. Continue mixing until the mixture turns crumbly. Gradually add chilled water, a little at a time, stirring until the dough begins to come together.
Once the dough forms a rough mass, wrap it in plastic wrap, then knead it gently to form a disc. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the dough to rest and firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Filling
While the dough is chilling, it’s time to prepare the filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the grated carrot, minced garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and button mushrooms. Cook the mixture until the mushrooms release their water and it evaporates, leaving a dry, flavorful filling.
Lower the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and basil leaves, followed by salt, white pepper, and soy sauce. Continue cooking for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to blend. Once done, remove the mixture from the heat and set it aside to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Take the chilled dough from the refrigerator and, on a floured surface, roll it out into a thin disc. Using a 3-1/2-inch round cutter, cut out circles of dough. Gather the excess dough, re-roll it, and continue cutting circles until all the dough has been used. You should have about 16 to 17 dough circles.
Stretch each dough circle gently into an oval shape, then place approximately 1 tablespoon of the cooled mushroom filling in the center of each oval. Moisten the edges of the dough with a bit of water, fold the dough over the filling to form a semi-circle, and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
Step 4: Bake the Empanadas
Place the sealed empanadas on the prepared baking tray. Using a knife, make a small incision at the center of each empanada to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the tops of each empanada with a light coating of milk to promote golden browning.
Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until they turn slightly golden brown. Keep a close watch on the empanadas, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the freshly baked Mushroom Empanadas as a delightful party appetizer. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or serve alongside other tempting appetizers like Spinach and Dill Tart with Roasted Peppers or the classic Spanish Tapas dish, Patata Bravas. These empanadas are sure to become a favorite at any gathering!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
Mushroom Empanadas are not only a tasty treat but also an elegant and versatile appetizer to make ahead of time for your next celebration. Whether baked for a lighter option or deep-fried for that irresistible crispiness, these empanadas are sure to impress your guests with their delectable filling and flaky crust. Enjoy this fusion-inspired dish and make your next gathering a culinary success!
