We’ve always loved exploring global flavors, and Guam’s empanadas offer a delicious twist on a classic. Originating from the Chamorro culture with Spanish influences, these crispy pockets pack in savory fillings like spiced meats and veggies, reflecting Guam’s vibrant island heritage.
Ingredients
In our Guam Empanadas recipe, we select fresh, vibrant ingredients that capture the essence of Chamorro heritage and Spanish flavors, ensuring a crispy outer shell and a savory, spiced filling.
To prepare these delicious pastries, we organize our ingredients by category and order of use, starting with the dough followed by the filling components. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: We sift this first to ensure a light, flaky texture that holds the filling securely.
- 1/2 cup cold water: Added gradually while mixing to form a smooth, elastic dough base.
- 1/4 cup vegetable shortening: We incorporate this for richness and to create the signature crispy exterior of Guam Empanadas.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Mixed in early to enhance the dough’s flavor profile.
- 1 pound ground beef: We brown this first in a skillet to infuse it with spices, representing the hearty Chamorro meats.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Sautéed next with the beef for a sweet, aromatic base that builds layers of taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Added after the onion to release their pungent aroma and deepen the savory notes.
- 1 cup potatoes, diced: We parboil these briefly before adding to the mix for a tender, hearty element.
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped: Stirred in for a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that balances the spices.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: We use this for a mild heat and vibrant color, nodding to Spanish influences.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Ground fresh and added to season the filling to perfection.
- Salt to taste: Adjusted at the end for optimal flavor harmony.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the filling ingredients to prevent sticking and add subtle depth.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 15 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 40 |
| Fat (g) | 15 |
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our delicious Guam Empanadas with their crispy shells and flavorful fillings, we need a set of essential tools and equipment. These items help us achieve the perfect texture and ensure efficient preparation. Below, we’ve organized them into categories for clarity, building on the fresh ingredients we discussed earlier.
Basic Kitchen Essentials
- Mixing bowls: We use large and medium-sized bowls to combine dough ingredients like flour and water, ensuring even mixing without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe, so these tools help us precisely measure flour, shortening, and spices.
Preparation Tools
- Rolling pin: This is crucial for rolling out the dough to the ideal thickness, creating that signature flaky crust for our Guam Empanadas.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: We rely on these for chopping vegetables and meats, such as onions, garlic, and potatoes, to prepare the savory filling efficiently.
Cooking and Assembly Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan: For frying the empanadas to golden perfection, we recommend a non-stick pan with high sides to handle the oil safely.
- Spatula: This tool helps us flip and remove the empanadas from the pan without breaking them, preserving their shape and crispiness.
- Pastry brush: We use it to seal the edges of the empanadas with egg wash, ensuring the filling stays inside during cooking.
- Baking sheet and oven (optional): If we opt for baking instead of frying, a lined baking sheet allows for even cooking at 375°F, offering a healthier alternative.
Additional Tools for Efficiency
- Timer: To monitor cooking times accurately, preventing over-frying and maintaining the empanadas’ appetizing golden color.
- Food thermometer: Though not always necessary, we suggest one for checking oil temperature (around 350°F) to achieve the best results.
With these tools in hand, we’re ready to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, transforming our ingredients into authentic, mouthwatering Guam Empanadas.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting authentic Guam Empanadas with these straightforward steps to achieve a crispy, flavorful result.
Prepare the Dough
To create the perfect base for our Guam Empanadas, start by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of vegetable shortening in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to work the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 1/2 cup of cold water, mixing with a spoon until a soft dough forms that is easy to handle but not sticky. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover it with a clean cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to become pliable, ensuring a tender, flaky exterior that complements the savory filling.
Make the Filling
For the hearty filling that captures the essence of Guam’s culinary heritage, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Incorporate 1 diced potato, 1 diced bell pepper, and spices like 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika, then cook for another 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and the flavors meld into an aromatic, savory mixture. This step infuses the filling with rich, spicy notes that evoke the island’s vibrant tastes, making each bite irresistible.
Assemble the Empanadas
With the dough rested and filling ready, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut it into 4-5 inch circles using a round cutter or glass. Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each circle, ensuring not to overfill to allow for proper sealing. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal tightly. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden sheen, creating empanadas that promise a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor with every piece.
Cook the Empanadas
To achieve that signature crispy texture, heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Carefully add the assembled empanadas in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn a deep golden brown and bubble enticingly. If you prefer baking, arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, revealing piping-hot empanadas with a flaky exterior and juicy, spiced interior that highlight our Guam Empanadas recipe’s authentic appeal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Guam Empanadas recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare components in advance to save time while preserving that authentic, crispy texture and flavorful filling. This approach allows us to enjoy fresh-tasting empanadas without starting from scratch every time. Below, we’ll break down the steps for making the dough and filling ahead, along with storage and reheating tips to ensure optimal results.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We recommend making the dough up to 2 days in advance for convenience. Follow these steps to prepare and store it properly:
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cut in ½ cup of vegetable shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add liquid and knead: Gradually add ½ cup of cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Wrap and refrigerate: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator. This step helps the dough rest and develop better texture.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
The filling can be made up to 3 days ahead, as it holds up well when stored correctly. Here’s how we do it:
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 2 tablespoons of oil for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Brown the meat: Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Incorporate vegetables and spices: Stir in 2 diced potatoes, 1 diced bell pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt to taste. Cook for another 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Cool and store: Let the filling cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and safety. We’ve outlined the details in the table below for quick reference:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Refrigerate in plastic wrap | Up to 2 days | Keep it wrapped to prevent drying out. |
| Filling | Refrigerate in airtight container | Up to 3 days | Ensure it’s fully cooled before storing to avoid condensation. |
| Assembled Empanadas | Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag | Up to 1 month | Do not bake or fry before freezing for best results. |
Reheating and Finishing
When you’re ready to enjoy our Guam Empanadas, here’s how we bring them back to life:
- Thaw if frozen: If using frozen assembled empanadas, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
- Assemble: Roll out the dough, cut into 6-inch circles, add 2 tablespoons of filling to each, fold, and seal the edges with a fork.
- Cook: Fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy, or bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
- Pro tip: For the crispiest results, brush baked empanadas with a little oil before cooking to mimic that fried texture we love in authentic Guam Empanadas.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our empanadas remain delicious and true to the island’s vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Guam Empanada recipe, a true celebration of island flavors and heritage. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a way to connect with Chamorro traditions in our kitchens.
As we wrap up, we encourage you to tweak the recipe and make it your own, creating memorable moments with family and friends. You’ll find these empanadas become a favorite staple, bringing a taste of Guam right to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Guam Empanada?
Guam Empanadas are crispy pastries blending Chamorro and Spanish influences, featuring a savory filling of spiced meats, vegetables, and herbs. They showcase Guam’s rich culinary heritage with a golden, flaky crust and flavorful inside, making them a beloved island treat.
What ingredients are needed for Guam Empanadas?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, cold water, and vegetable shortening for the dough, plus ground beef, onions, garlic, potatoes, and bell peppers for the filling. Spices add authentic flavor, ensuring a tasty, traditional result with about 350 calories per serving.
What tools are required to make Guam Empanadas?
Essential tools include mixing bowls and measuring cups for prep, a rolling pin for dough, a skillet for cooking the filling, and a spatula for assembly. These basics help achieve the perfect crispy texture efficiently in your kitchen.
How do you prepare Guam Empanadas step by step?
Start by making the dough: mix flour and shortening, add water, and knead until smooth. For the filling, sauté onions, garlic, beef, potatoes, and peppers with spices. Roll out dough, fill circles, seal edges, then fry or bake until crispy for authentic Guam flavors.
Can I make Guam Empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and the filling up to 3 days ahead. Store in the fridge or freeze for longer. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness and fresh taste, making it easy for busy schedules without losing island vibes.
What is the nutritional information for Guam Empanadas?
Each serving has about 350 calories, 15g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. They’re a balanced snack with veggies and protein, but enjoy in moderation as part of a healthy diet for the best taste and nutrition.