Empanadas de Camarón y Queso
Delight your taste buds with these scrumptious shrimp and cheese empanadas, a perfect blend of flaky dough filled with succulent shrimp and rich cheese, ideal for any occasion. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Latin flavors with this easy and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (without baking powder) | 3 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Warm milk | ½ cup |
| Melted lard | 2 tablespoons |
| Warm water | ½ cup |
| Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1 pound (½ kilo) |
| Soft cheese (e.g., queso mantecoso) | 1 pound (½ kilo) |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 280 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 8g |
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large bowl, create a well with the flour by placing it in the center and forming a volcano shape. Add the salt around the edges, and in the center, incorporate the baking powder, warm milk, and melted lard. Mix the dough while gradually adding warm water until it forms a soft and elastic dough that doesn’t stick to your fingers. Knead the dough until smooth, then cover it and let it rest for about 10 minutes. |
| 2 | Roll out the rested dough with a rolling pin until it is thin. For uniformity, you may use small plates or a cutter to shape the dough into rounds. |
| 3 | Moisten the edges of each dough circle with a little water using your fingers. Place small pieces of shrimp and cheese in the center of each circle, ensuring there is more cheese than shrimp for a deliciously cheesy bite. |
| 4 | Fold the empanada in half and crimp the edges to seal. You can use a fork to press down along the edges, ensuring they are well sealed, and giving a decorative finish, just like the picture above. |
| 5 | If you prefer to bake the empanadas, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the tops of the empanadas with a mixture of egg yolk and water for a golden finish. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until golden brown. |
| 6 | To fry the empanadas, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Then, lower the heat and fry the empanadas for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. |
Serving Suggestions
These delightful empanadas can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Pair them with a refreshing dipping sauce or a zesty salsa for an extra flavor kick. Enjoy these delicious empanadas at parties, gatherings, or as a fun family meal.
Final Thoughts
Empanadas de camarón y queso are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor, making them a crowd favorite. With the perfect balance of shrimp and cheese encased in a flaky pastry, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether baked or fried, these empanadas will take your taste buds on a delightful journey through the heart of Latin cuisine.
Now, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary adventure! Enjoy the process of making these scrumptious empanadas and the joy they bring to your table.
