Mushroom Empanadas Recipe: A Flavorful Fusion Appetizer
Mushroom Empanadas bring together the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms, complemented by a crispy golden pastry, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. This fusion recipe blends classic empanada technique with a flavorful mushroom filling, creating a delicious vegetarian option that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients for the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/4 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon or to taste |
| Chilled Water | As needed |
Ingredients for the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Carrot (Gajjar, grated) | 1 |
| Button Mushrooms (chopped) | 8 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum, chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Parsley Leaves (chopped) | 3 tablespoons |
| Basil Leaves (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| White Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For Brushing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | As needed |
Prep Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Fusion
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Mushroom Empanadas Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Begin by sifting the all-purpose flour (maida) into a large mixing bowl to remove any lumps.
- Add salt to the flour and mix well.
- Incorporate the unsalted butter into the flour. You can do this using a pastry blender, fork, or food processor until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Gradually add chilled water, a little at a time, mixing continuously until the dough starts coming together.
- Once the dough forms, wrap it in plastic wrap and knead it lightly to form a disc.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to let it rest and firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat sunflower oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the grated carrot, garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and button mushrooms to the pan. Stir to combine and cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates. This ensures the filling doesn’t become too watery.
- Pour in the soy sauce, then reduce the heat to low and add the chopped parsley, basil, white pepper powder, and salt to taste. Stir to combine and let the mixture cool before filling the dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a thin disc. Using a 3-1/2-inch circle cutter, cut out circles of dough. You should be able to make about 16-17 circles from the dough.
- Gently stretch each dough circle into an oval shape to create a bit more space for the filling.
- Place a tablespoon of the cooled mushroom filling in the center of each oval.
- Moisten the edges of the dough with water and fold it over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Use a fork to press the edges of the dough together, sealing the empanada securely.
Step 4: Bake the Empanadas
- Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking tray.
- Use a sharp knife to make a small incision at the center of each empanada to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with milk to achieve a golden and shiny finish as they bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the empanadas are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on the baking process, as oven temperatures may vary.
- Once golden, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Serve these delicious Mushroom Empanadas as a delightful appetizer at your next party or gathering. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and can be enjoyed alongside other tapas-style dishes like Spinach and Dill Tart with Roasted Peppers or Patata Bravas for a full spread of flavor-packed small bites.
Serving Suggestions:
Mushroom Empanadas make a great party appetizer, but they also serve as a fantastic addition to a tapas-style meal. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as a creamy garlic aioli, salsa verde, or a tangy tomato chutney for extra flavor. These empanadas are sure to be a hit with vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike!
Enjoy the fusion of flavors with the crispy, buttery pastry and savory mushroom filling that is perfectly complemented by the fresh herbs and the umami kick of soy sauce.
