Sourdough Empanadas

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Introduction

Empanadas are one of those heartwarming foods that feel like a hug in every bite. Now imagine that same cozy, savory pastry made even better with a soft and flavorful sourdough crust. That is what this recipe for sourdough empanadas brings to your kitchen. These empanadas have a delicate balance of flaky texture and deep sourdough flavor that makes them taste special and wholesome. The slight tang from the sourdough starter adds character to the dough, making every bite rich and satisfying. Whether you fill them with meat, vegetables, or cheese, sourdough empanadas will quickly become a family favorite.

People love this recipe because it is both comforting and nourishing. Sourdough is known for being easier to digest compared to regular dough, thanks to its natural fermentation process. The dough becomes soft, flavorful, and full of personality. You can fill these empanadas with anything you love — spicy beef, creamy mushrooms, tender chicken, or even sweet fillings like apple and cinnamon. Every version feels homemade and full of love. The combination of sourdough and filling creates a depth of flavor that regular empanadas often lack.

This recipe is perfect for cozy weekends, family gatherings, or days when you crave something homemade and comforting. It also makes a great meal for sharing with friends. You can prepare the dough ahead of time, fill and bake the empanadas when ready, and enjoy them fresh and warm from the oven. Making sourdough empanadas can also be a relaxing kitchen activity, especially if you enjoy baking or working with sourdough starter. The process connects you to traditional cooking methods and brings a feeling of joy and satisfaction when you see the golden, flaky pastries come out of the oven.

Ingredients You Will Need

Here is everything you need to make perfect sourdough empanadas at home. All measurements are clear and easy to follow.

For the Dough:

  • 2 and ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)

  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • ¼ cup cold water (add more if needed)

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling (Beef Version):

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup ground beef (or shredded chicken)

  • ½ cup diced bell pepper

  • ½ cup diced potatoes (optional)

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon cumin powder

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)

  • ¼ cup chopped green olives (optional but delicious)

  • 1 boiled egg, chopped (optional but traditional)

You can easily change the filling based on what you like. For a vegetarian option, you can use cooked mushrooms, spinach, corn, cheese, or beans instead of meat.

Step by Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Mix them well. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like small crumbs. This helps create a flaky crust later.

Add the active sourdough starter to the bowl and mix it in with a spoon or your hands. Slowly add cold water, a little at a time, and knead gently until the dough comes together. You do not need to knead it too much; just enough to form a soft, smooth dough. If it feels too dry, add a few drops of water. If it feels sticky, add a spoonful of flour.

Once the dough is ready, shape it into a ball and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for about 30 minutes to one hour at room temperature. This resting time helps relax the gluten and makes the dough easier to roll later.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rests, prepare your filling. Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until they become soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until it browns evenly. Stir in diced bell pepper, potatoes, and spices like paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the mixture looks slightly dry.

If you like extra flavor, add chopped olives and a chopped boiled egg. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool completely before using. It is very important that the filling is cool so it does not melt the dough when you assemble the empanadas.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has rested, lightly flour your working surface and roll out the dough into a thin sheet, about one eighth of an inch thick. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles about five to six inches wide. Keep the cut dough circles covered with a towel to prevent them from drying out while you work.

Step 4: Fill and Shape the Empanadas

Place one tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill because that can make it difficult to seal. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges gently with your fingers to close them, then use a fork to crimp the edges for a classic empanada look. This also helps seal the filling inside.

If you want an even more beautiful shape, you can twist the edge gently inwards in small folds. It takes a little practice, but it looks beautiful once baked.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Place the shaped empanadas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat one egg and brush it lightly over the tops of the empanadas. This egg wash gives them a shiny golden color when baked.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Bake the empanadas for about 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp.

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. The filling will be very hot inside, so give them a few minutes to settle.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your sourdough empanadas warm. They are delicious on their own or with sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or sour cream. You can also enjoy them with a simple salad or a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.

These empanadas also store well. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to three days or freeze unbaked empanadas for later use. When ready to bake, simply brush them with egg and place them straight in the oven.

Why This Recipe Is Special

Sourdough empanadas stand out for many reasons. The sourdough dough adds flavor that regular pastry dough does not have. Its natural fermentation gives it a mild tang and makes it more digestible for many people. The texture is both flaky and tender, giving a pleasant bite that pairs perfectly with the filling inside.

This recipe is also special because it combines tradition with health benefits. Sourdough fermentation helps break down gluten and increases the absorption of nutrients like iron and magnesium. It also adds healthy bacteria that support gut health. So when you enjoy these empanadas, you are not just eating a tasty snack but also something that nourishes your body.

Another reason people love sourdough empanadas is their versatility. You can fill them with almost anything you like — beef, chicken, vegetables, cheese, or even sweet ingredients like chocolate or fruit. This means you can make them for any meal, from lunch to dessert. They are easy to pack for school lunches, picnics, or road trips.

Sourdough empanadas are also a beautiful way to use up sourdough starter discard. Instead of wasting the extra starter, you can turn it into delicious dough for empanadas. It is a sustainable and creative way to make use of every bit of your sourdough.

Extra Tips for Better Taste

  1. Use Active Starter
    Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it. This helps create a softer dough and adds better flavor.

  2. Chill the Dough Before Rolling
    If your dough feels too soft or sticky, place it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before rolling. Cold dough is easier to handle and gives a flakier texture.

  3. Do Not Overfill
    Too much filling can make the empanadas burst while baking. One tablespoon of filling per empanada is usually perfect.

  4. Seal the Edges Well
    To prevent leaks, press the edges firmly before crimping. You can also brush a little water on the edges before sealing for extra security.

  5. Experiment with Fillings
    Try roasted vegetables, spiced lentils, or cheese and herbs. You can even make sweet empanadas with apple cinnamon or chocolate banana fillings.

  6. Add Herbs for Aroma
    Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can make your filling smell and taste amazing.

  7. Bake Instead of Frying
    Baking keeps the empanadas lighter and healthier, while still giving a crispy crust.

  8. Serve with Dips
    Chimichurri, tomato salsa, garlic yogurt, or avocado cream are perfect for dipping.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough empanadas are more than just a recipe. They are a celebration of comfort, flavor, and creativity. Every step, from mixing the dough to sealing the edges, connects you with traditional homemade cooking. The beautiful combination of sourdough’s natural tang and the warm, savory filling makes every bite satisfying and full of love.

This recipe is perfect for beginners who want to explore sourdough baking in a simple and rewarding way. It is also great for experienced bakers who want to try something different with their sourdough starter. Whether you make them for your family, your friends, or yourself, these empanadas will bring smiles and warm hearts.

Once you try sourdough empanadas, you will understand why they are loved by so many people around the world. They are easy to make, full of character, and always delicious. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with your favorite dip and a cup of tea or coffee.

Nutrition Details

The following nutrition facts are for one serving of sourdough empanada (one medium piece, baked, with beef filling). Values may vary slightly based on ingredients used.

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 230 kcal
Carbohydrates 24 g
Protein 9 g
Fat 11 g
Saturated Fat 5 g
Cholesterol 48 mg
Sodium 210 mg
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 2 g
Calcium 35 mg
Iron 2 mg
Potassium 120 mg

This recipe makes around 12 medium empanadas. The total nutrition for the whole batch will depend on your filling choice. Vegetarian versions will have less fat, while cheese or meat fillings may increase protein and calories.

Disclaimer

This recipe is made with natural ingredients and is meant to be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Everyone’s body is different, and results may vary based on your health, metabolism, and dietary needs. If you have allergies or special health conditions, please check with a health professional before trying new recipes. Always use fresh and safe ingredients when cooking at home.

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