We absolutely love exploring the vibrant flavors of Guam, and our Guamanian Empanada recipe brings that tropical twist to your table. These golden pockets blend Spanish heritage with fresh Pacific ingredients like tangy fruits and savory meats making them a fun cultural fusion.
Originating from the Chamorro people of Guam it’s a dish that reflects island life and packs bold tastes into every bite. Join us as we whip up this easy favorite that’ll transport you to the shores without the passport.
Ingredients
In our Guamanian Empanada recipe, we blend fresh Pacific ingredients with Spanish influences to create a crispy, flavorful treat that captures the bold tastes of Guam. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are typically used—from dough preparation to filling assembly—ensuring accuracy and ease for your cooking adventure.
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for a smooth texture, forming the base of our golden, flaky crust.
- 1/2 cup water: Lukewarm to help activate the dough, promoting elasticity without overworking.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: For a tender, rich dough that fries up perfectly crisp.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Fine sea salt to enhance the subtle flavors and balance the dough’s neutrality.
- 1 tablespoon achiote powder: Optional for that authentic reddish hue, evoking Guam’s vibrant cultural fusion.
Filling Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or chicken: Lean cut, browned first to lock in juicy, savory flavors that represent the Chamorro heritage.
- 1 medium onion: Finely chopped for a sweet, aromatic base that builds the filling’s depth.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for a pungent, irresistible aroma that infuses every bite.
- 1 cup potatoes: Diced into small cubes and precooked until tender, adding hearty texture and subtle earthiness.
- 1/2 cup carrots: Julienned for a crisp, colorful contrast that highlights fresh island vegetables.
- 1/2 cup green beans: Trimmed and sliced, providing a fresh, slightly crunchy element to the mix.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: For umami depth that ties in Pacific influences.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar: White or apple cider, to add a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a spicy kick that elevates the overall bold profile.
- Optional: 1/2 cup peas: Frozen and thawed, for added sweetness and nutrition in this Guamanian staple.
This selection ensures our Guamanian Empanada delivers an explosion of tropical essence and cultural authenticity in every savory bite.
Equipment
To prepare our Guamanian Empanada recipe seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we rely on essential tools that make dough handling and filling assembly straightforward. These items ensure precision and efficiency in capturing the authentic flavors of Guam’s cultural fusion.
Required Tools
For crafting Guamanian Empanadas, we recommend the following tools, organized by preparation stage to maintain a smooth workflow:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for combining dough ingredients like flour and water, and another for mixing the filling components such as ground beef, onions, and vegetables—to prevent cross-contamination and ensure even blending.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard cups and spoons for accurately measuring ingredients; precision is key to achieving the perfect dough texture and balanced flavors in our empanada filling.
- Rolling Pin: A sturdy wooden or silicone pin to roll out the dough evenly, creating the ideal thickness for those crispy, golden empanada shells that embody Guam’s tropical essence.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A non-stick pan with a 10-12 inch diameter for cooking the filling; we use medium heat to sauté ingredients like garlic and potatoes, locking in their vibrant, savory notes.
- Baking Sheet or Tray: If baking the empanadas, a lined sheet for even cooking at 375°F; this tool helps achieve a flaky exterior while preserving the dish’s bold, Pacific-inspired tastes.
- Cutting Board and Knife: A large board paired with a sharp chef’s knife for chopping vegetables and meats; safety and efficiency are our priorities to handle prep work quickly.
- Pastry Brush: For applying oil or egg wash on the empanadas before cooking, ensuring a glossy finish that enhances the appetizing appearance of this Guamanian delicacy.
This selection of tools streamlines the process, allowing us to focus on the sensory delights of Guam’s culinary traditions.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools prepared, let’s create these flavorful Guamanian Empanadas step by step. We guarantee this process will bring the authentic Chamorro flavors of Guam to your kitchen, resulting in crispy, savory bites packed with tropical essence.
Prepare the Dough
Follow these steps to make a versatile dough that forms the perfect base for our Guamanian Empanadas:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and optional 1 tablespoon achiote powder for a vibrant red hue that enhances the traditional look.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup lukewarm water and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms—we recommend using a wooden spoon for even incorporation.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, feeling the texture transform under your fingers for that ideal pliability.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature; this allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll and infusing it with a soft, tropical-inspired tenderness.
Make the Filling
We’ll now craft a hearty filling that captures the bold, savory notes of Guam’s culinary traditions:
- Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden, releasing an irresistible aroma that evokes island spices.
- Add 1 pound ground beef or chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through, ensuring the meat is seasoned with the essence of Chamorro flavors.
- Stir in 1 cup diced potatoes, 1/2 cup diced carrots, 1/2 cup chopped green beans, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and *1/2 teaspoon black pepper, cooking for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp, creating a vibrant mix of textures and tastes that burst with tropical freshness.
- If desired, fold in 1/2 cup optional peas during the last 2 minutes for added sweetness and color, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, cohesive filling ready for assembly.
Assemble the Empanadas
With our dough and filling ready, let’s assemble these delightful pockets that showcase Guam’s cultural fusion:
- Divide the rested dough into 12 equal portions and roll each one into a circle about 6 inches in diameter on a floured surface, aiming for a thin, even thickness that promises a flaky, golden crust.
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the prepared filling in the center of each dough circle, then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal—we suggest using a fork to crimp the edges for a professional, authentic finish.
- Optional: Brush the sealed empanadas with a beaten egg wash for a shiny exterior that enhances the appetizing golden color when cooked, ensuring they hold their shape beautifully.
Cook the Empanadas
- For frying, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy), then carefully add 3-4 empanadas at a time, frying for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy, filling the air with the sizzling sounds and mouthwatering aroma of fresh Chamorro street food.
- For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F, place the empanadas on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach a perfectly crisp, appetizing texture without the added oil.
- Once cooked, transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle for an explosion of tropical taste in every bite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our Guamanian Empanada preparation and savor the bold flavors of Guam without last-minute rush, we can make key components ahead of time. This approach ensures freshness and authenticity while allowing us to focus on assembly and cooking when ready.
Preparing the Dough in Advance
We recommend making the dough up to 24 hours ahead for optimal texture. Start by following the dough preparation steps from our earlier instructions—mixing flour, salt, and optional achiote powder, then adding water and oil, kneading until smooth, and letting it rest.
- Wrap and Refrigerate: After kneading, shape the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting period enhances the dough’s elasticity, making it easier to roll out later.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months. First, divide it into portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use to maintain that perfectly pliable consistency.
Preparing the Filling in Advance
Our flavorful filling—featuring sautéed onions, garlic, ground meat, and vegetables—can be made ahead to lock in the tropical essence of Guam’s cuisine.
- Cook and Cool: Prepare the filling as outlined, cooking the onions and garlic first, then adding meat and vegetables with soy sauce and seasonings until fully combined. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes to prevent condensation.
- Store Properly: Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days, or freeze in portioned bags for up to 3 months. This method preserves the vibrant flavors and prevents sogginess when assembling empanadas.
- Reheating Tip: When ready to use, gently reheat the refrigerated filling in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or thaw and reheat frozen filling in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to restore its irresistible aroma.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
For quick reference, here’s a summary of our recommended storage times and methods in the table below. These practices help maintain the empanadas’ crispy texture and rich taste.
| Component | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Up to 24 hours | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge overnight, then let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before rolling. |
| Filling | Up to 2 days | Up to 3 months | Reheat in skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes on high. |
| Assembled Empanadas | Up to 1 day | Up to 1 month | Bake from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or fry after thawing for 10-15 minutes. |
By planning ahead, we ensure every bite of our Guamanian Empanadas delivers the authentic, bold fusion of Spanish and Pacific influences.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Guamanian Empanada recipe with you as it brings Guam’s rich flavors right to your kitchen. It’s more than a meal—it’s a celebration of cultural heritage that sparks joy in every bite.
Now it’s your turn to dive in and create your own tropical twist. We’re confident you’ll savor the bold tastes and make it a staple in your home. Let’s keep exploring global cuisines together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Guamanian Empanada?
A Guamanian Empanada is a savory pastry from Guam, blending Spanish and Chamorro influences with fresh Pacific ingredients. It features a crispy dough filled with seasoned meat, vegetables, and bold flavors, representing Guam’s vibrant island culture. This easy recipe brings the tropical essence of Guam to your kitchen in every bite.
What ingredients are needed for the empanada dough and filling?
For the dough, you’ll need all-purpose flour, lukewarm water, vegetable oil, salt, and optional achiote powder for color. The filling includes ground beef or chicken, onion, garlic, potatoes, carrots, green beans, soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, and optional peas. These ingredients capture Guam’s rich culinary traditions for an authentic, flavorful dish.
What equipment is required to make Guamanian Empanadas?
Essential tools include mixing bowls for dough and filling, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a rolling pin for even dough, a skillet for sautéing, a baking sheet for baking, a cutting board and knife for prep, and a pastry brush for finishing. These items make the process smooth and efficient.
How do I prepare the Guamanian Empanada dough?
Start by mixing flour, salt, and optional achiote powder in a bowl. Add lukewarm water and oil, then knead until smooth. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes to develop texture. This simple step ensures a pliable base for your empanadas, ready for filling and shaping.
Can I make Guamanian Empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for better texture. Make the filling ahead, cook it fully, then cool and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows for easy assembly later, preserving the bold flavors of Guam’s cuisine.
How should I store and reheat the empanadas?
Store cooked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or fry until crispy. This keeps the empanadas fresh and maintains their authentic tropical taste.