We’ve always been captivated by the vibrant flavors of Pacific island cuisine, and the Chamorro Empanada from Guam stands out as a true gem. These crispy, golden pastries blend savory fillings like spiced meat and veggies with a nod to ancient Chamorro traditions, making them a delightful treat for any gathering.
Originating from the indigenous Chamorro people, this recipe showcases Guam’s rich cultural heritage while offering a simple way to bring exotic tastes to your kitchen. We’re excited to share how easy it is to recreate this flavorful staple that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
In our Chamorro Empanada recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that embody the vibrant, savory essence of Guam’s culinary traditions. These components ensure an authentic, flavorful pastry that’s simple to prepare at home.
Dough Ingredients
To create the golden, crispy shell that encases our Chamorro Empanada, we start with these essential items. Here’s the list, ordered as they are typically combined:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base for a sturdy yet flaky dough.
- 1/2 cup shortening or lard: Adds richness and tenderness; use chilled for best results.
- 1/2 cup warm water: Helps bind the dough; mix gradually to achieve the right consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the dough’s texture.
- 1 tablespoon achiote powder: Provides the signature orange hue; dissolve in water if using seeds for even color distribution.
Filling Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or pork: The protein base; brown it first for depth of flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and aroma; sauté until translucent.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a pungent kick; cook briefly to release its essence.
- 1 cup green beans, chopped: Provides crunch and nutrition; blanch if using fresh.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Contributes sweetness and color; cook until tender.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced: Adds heartiness; boil or steam beforehand for quicker assembly.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Seasons with umami; stir in for a savory boost.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar: Balances flavors with a tangy note; opt for white or apple cider.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning to enhance the overall blend.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Chamorro Empanadas, let’s gather the essential equipment to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Having the right tools on hand will help us achieve that perfect flaky dough and flavorful filling with ease.
We recommend the following items, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large): These are crucial for combining dough ingredients like flour and water, and for mixing the savory filling components such as ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our authentic Chamorro Empanadas, so use these to portion out ingredients like salt, achiote powder, and liquids precisely.
- Rolling pin: This tool helps us roll the dough into thin, even circles, ensuring the empanadas have the ideal texture and golden crust.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: We’ll use these for chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, green beans, carrots, and potatoes, allowing for quick and safe prep work.
- Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for frying the empanadas to achieve their signature crispy exterior—aim for one with high sides to handle oil safely.
- Spatula or slotted spoon: Perfect for flipping and removing the empanadas from hot oil, preventing breaks and ensuring even cooking.
- Baking sheet (if baking instead of frying): For those opting for a healthier twist, this allows us to bake the empanadas until they’re golden and irresistibly aromatic.
With this equipment ready, we’re set to move forward and bring the vibrant flavors of our Chamorro Empanadas to life.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, let’s guide you through crafting authentic Chamorro Empanadas step by step. We will ensure each phase delivers the vibrant flavors and textures that make this dish a beloved staple.
Prepare the Dough
To start, combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon achiote powder for that signature golden hue. In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup shortening or lard with 3/4 cup warm water until it forms a smooth paste.
Gradually incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. We recommend kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s elastic and not sticky—the dough should feel pliable under your hands, promising a flaky crust that encases the savory filling perfectly. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to enhance its texture and ease of rolling.
Make the Filling
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they release a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen.
Next, stir in 1 pound ground beef or pork, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns for 5-7 minutes. Add 1 cup diced green beans, 1 cup diced carrots, and 1 cup diced potatoes, then season with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Cook the mixture for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld into a hearty, savory blend—imagine the earthy notes of the veggies balancing the rich meatiness for an irresistible taste of Chamorro heritage.
Assemble the Empanadas
After the dough has rested, divide it into 12 equal portions and roll each one into a circle about 6 inches in diameter on a floured surface. Place a heaping tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal them tightly—this step ensures the empanadas hold their form and prevent any delicious juices from escaping during cooking. For an authentic touch, we suggest making small slits on the top to allow steam to vent, resulting in a golden, crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the warm filling inside.
Cook the Empanadas
Choose your cooking method based on preference—frying for a crispier result or baking for a lighter option. For frying, heat 2 inches of oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). Carefully add the empanadas in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn a deep golden brown and bubble enticingly.
If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the empanadas on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re evenly browned and flaky. Whichever method you choose, the empanadas will emerge with a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavors that evoke Guam’s vibrant culinary traditions.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help you enjoy our flavorful Chamorro Empanadas without the hassle of last-minute prep, we outline simple strategies for preparing components in advance. This approach ensures you capture the vibrant, savory essence of Guam’s cherished dish while saving time for gatherings or busy days.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We recommend making the dough up to 2 days in advance for optimal freshness. Start by combining all-purpose flour, shortening, warm water, salt, and achiote powder as detailed in our earlier steps. Once the dough forms a soft, pliable ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This resting period enhances its texture, allowing the flavors to meld and resulting in a tender, golden crust that crisps perfectly when cooked.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
The hearty filling—featuring ground beef or pork, onions, garlic, green beans, carrots, potatoes, soy sauce, vinegar, and seasonings—can be prepped up to 3 days ahead. Sauté the ingredients as instructed, then let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator. This method preserves the filling’s robust, aromatic profile, with the vegetables retaining their crisp-tender bite and the seasoned meat delivering that authentic, island-inspired zest.
Assembling Empanadas in Advance
For ultimate convenience, assemble the full empanadas ahead of time. After rolling out the dough and adding the filling, seal the edges and place the uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them on the sheet for about 1 hour until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. This keeps the empanadas’ flaky layers intact, ready to fry or bake directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for that irresistible, golden crunch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dish’s sensory appeal. Here’s a quick guide to storage durations and methods:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Refrigerator (wrapped) | Up to 2 days | Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before using. |
| Filling | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring to preserve moisture. |
| Assembled Empanadas | Freezer (in bag) | Up to 1 month | Fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and crispy. |
By following these make-ahead techniques, we ensure your Chamorro Empanadas remain a delightful burst of Guam’s cultural flavors, perfect for effortless entertaining.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Chamorro Empanada journey with you, as it’s more than just a recipe—it’s a taste of Guam’s spirit. Bringing these flavors to your table lets us connect with rich traditions and create memorable moments.
Try experimenting with your own twists while honoring the heritage, and you’ll find it’s a rewarding way to explore global cuisine right at home. We’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chamorro Empanada?
A Chamorro Empanada is a savory pastry from Guam, inspired by the indigenous Chamorro people’s heritage. It features a crispy dough filled with flavorful ingredients like ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings, reflecting the island’s vibrant culinary traditions. This dish is perfect for gatherings and easy to make at home.
What ingredients are needed for the dough?
For the dough, you’ll need all-purpose flour, shortening or lard, warm water, salt, and achiote powder for color. These simple, high-quality ingredients create a soft, pliable base that holds the filling well. Mix them together to form a dough that rests before rolling.
What are the key ingredients for the filling?
The filling includes ground beef or pork, onion, garlic, green beans, carrots, potatoes, soy sauce, vinegar, and seasonings. These components add authentic Guam flavors, with the meat providing savoriness and veggies offering texture. Sauté them together for a quick, tasty mix.
What equipment is essential for making Chamorro Empanadas?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, a cutting board with a sharp knife, a frying pan or deep fryer, and a baking sheet for baking options. These tools ensure a smooth preparation process and help achieve the perfect crunch.
How do you prepare and cook Chamorro Empanadas?
Start by making the dough: combine dry ingredients, add wet ones, and knead until smooth, then let it rest. For the filling, sauté onions, garlic, meat, and veggies with seasonings. Roll out dough, add filling, seal, and fry or bake until golden and crispy for that authentic Guam taste.
Can you make Chamorro Empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. The filling can be made 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container. Assemble empanadas and freeze for up to 1 month, then cook from frozen for convenience without losing flavor.
How should you store and reheat leftover empanadas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a month. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy, or use a microwave for quick heating, ensuring they retain their delicious texture and flavors.