Can You Make Empanadas With Tortillas?

Yes, you can make empanadas using tortillas as a convenient alternative to traditional empanada dough. Tortilla empanadas are quick and easy to prepare, offering a delicious twist on the classic recipe.

These handheld treats can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients like seasoned ground meat, cheese, or vegetables. Whether baked or fried, tortilla empanadas are a versatile and flavorful option for a tasty snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Read on to learn in detail.

Easy and Quick Empanada Recipes Using Tortillas

Empanadas are a popular and delicious dish that originated in Spain and is now enjoyed in many different countries around the world. Traditionally, empanadas are made with a flaky pastry dough and filled with various savory ingredients. However, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make empanadas, using tortillas as a substitute for the pastry dough is a great option. Not only does it save you time, but it also gives the empanadas a unique and tasty twist. In this section, we will share two simple recipes for making empanadas using tortillas.

1. Classic Beef Empanadas

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto one half of a tortilla. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges together to seal the empanada.
7. In a separate skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
8. Carefully place the empanadas into the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
9. Remove the empanadas from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Spinach and Cheese Empanadas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
2. Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture onto one half of a tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges together to seal the empanada.
4. In a separate skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
5. Carefully place the empanadas into the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
6. Remove the empanadas from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

In summary, making empanadas using tortillas is a quick and easy alternative to the traditional pastry dough. Whether you choose to make classic beef empanadas or spinach and cheese empanadas, these delicious treats are sure to be a hit. So give these recipes a try and enjoy the flavors of homemade empanadas without the extra time and effort!

Creative Ways to Use Tortillas for Empanada Wrappers

Empanadas are a delicious Spanish and Latin American pastry filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. Traditionally, empanadas are made with a wheat-based dough called masa. However, if you don’t have masa on hand or are looking for a creative twist, tortillas can be a great alternative for making empanada wrappers. Here are some creative ways to use tortillas for empanada wrappers:

1. Mini Tortilla Empanadas

If you’re hosting a party or gathering, mini tortilla empanadas can be the perfect appetizer or finger food. Simply cut the tortillas into small circles using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass. Place a spoonful of your desired filling in the center of each circle, fold the tortilla in half to form a half-moon shape, and seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Fry or bake the mini empanadas until golden brown, and serve them with salsa or your favorite dipping sauce.

2. Tortilla Pocket Empanadas

Tortillas can also be used to create pocket-style empanadas filled with a variety of ingredients. Start by cutting a large tortilla into square or rectangular shapes. Place your filling in the center of each piece, leaving enough space around the edges to fold and seal. Fold one corner of the tortilla over the filling to form a triangle, then press the edges together with a fork to seal. Fry or bake the pocket empanadas until crispy and golden, and enjoy a handheld meal or snack.

3. Baked Tortilla Empanadas

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional fried empanadas, try baking them using tortillas. Brush one side of each tortilla with a light layer of olive oil or melted butter. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each tortilla, then fold it in half to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and place the empanadas on a baking sheet. Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are crisp and golden.

4. Tortilla Dessert Empanadas

Tortillas are not only limited to savory empanadas; they can also be used to create delicious dessert empanadas. Sweet fillings like Nutella, fruit preserves, or even caramelized apples can be wrapped in tortillas and cooked to perfection. Sprinkle the filled tortillas with a touch of cinnamon sugar before baking, and serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

5. Tortilla Empanada Pie

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something unique, why not create a tortilla empanada pie? Line a pie dish with a large tortilla, leaving some overhang. Layer your desired fillings, such as seasoned ground beef, cheese, onions, and peppers, on top of the tortilla. Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all your fillings, and fold the overhanging tortilla over the top to seal the pie. Bake it in the oven until the tortilla is crispy and golden, and enjoy a flavorful and innovative twist on traditional empanadas.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Empanadas with Tortillas

Whether you are new to making empanadas or just looking to improve your technique, here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect empanadas with tortillas.

1. Choose the Right Tortillas

When using tortillas for empanadas, it is important to choose the right type. Corn tortillas are a popular option as they are more pliable and hold up well during frying or baking. Flour tortillas can also be used, but they may not hold their shape as well and could become too soft. Opt for small-sized tortillas, around 6 inches in diameter, as they are easier to work with.

2. Heat and Soften the Tortillas

Before filling and folding the empanadas, it is essential to heat and soften the tortillas. This will make them more pliable and less likely to tear or break during the folding process. Heat each tortilla individually on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 10 seconds on each side, or until they become more flexible. Alternatively, you can wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp kitchen towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds.

3. Use the Right Filling

The filling is the star of the empanadas, so it’s important to choose a flavorful combination of ingredients. Traditional fillings include ground beef, chicken, or cheese with various vegetables and seasonings. Make sure your filling is cooked and seasoned to perfection before adding it to the tortillas. Be generous with the filling, but not too much to avoid overfilling and difficulty in sealing the empanadas.

4. Seal the Empanadas Properly

When folding and sealing the empanadas, it’s crucial to ensure that they are tightly sealed to prevent any leakage during cooking. To do this, place a spoonful of filling on one side of the tortilla, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, and using a fork, crimp the edges to create a tight seal. This will help the empanadas retain their shape and prevent any filling from escaping.

5. Choose the Cooking Method

There are different methods to cook empanadas with tortillas, and each will result in a slightly different texture. If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can fry the empanadas in hot oil until golden brown. For a healthier option, you can bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Whichever method you choose, make sure to place the empanadas seam-side down on the cooking surface to prevent them from opening during cooking.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once your empanadas with tortillas are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Empanadas are often served with a side of salsa or chimichurri sauce for dipping. They can be enjoyed as a snack or served with a fresh salad for a complete meal. Get creative with your fillings and experiment with different flavors to find your perfect empanada combination.

By following these tips and tricks, you can create perfect empanadas with tortillas every time. Remember to choose the right tortillas, heat and soften them before filling, use a flavorful filling, seal them properly, select the cooking method that suits your preference, and serve them with a delicious sauce or side dish. With a little practice and creativity, you’ll be whipping up tasty empanadas that will impress your family and friends.

Delicious Vegetarian Empanadas with Tortilla Wrappers

Now let’s take a closer look at how to make mouthwatering vegetarian empanadas:

Ingredients:

• 10 tortilla wrappers (flour or corn)
• 1 cup of cooked quinoa
• 1 cup of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the cooked quinoa, black beans, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool down for a few minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Take a tortilla wrapper and place about 1-2 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Sprinkle some shredded cheese and chopped cilantro on top.
6. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges together to seal the empanada. You can use a fork to create a decorative edge.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining tortilla wrappers and filling.
8. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little olive oil to help them turn golden and crispy.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

These vegetarian empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the filling according to your taste and dietary preferences. For example, you can add different vegetables such as corn, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.

Can you make empanadas with tortillas?

Yes, you can make empanadas using tortillas as a substitute for the traditional empanada dough. Simply place your filling on one half of a tortilla, fold it over, and seal the edges. You can then bake, fry, or grill the tortilla empanadas to your liking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while traditional empanadas are typically made with a dough made from wheat flour, it is possible to make a delicious variation using tortillas.

This can be a convenient option for those who may not have access to the necessary ingredients or prefer a quicker preparation method.

By filling the tortillas with a flavorful mixture of meat, cheese, vegetables, or any other desired filling, you can create a tasty and satisfying snack or meal. Whether you choose the traditional route or opt for the tortilla version, empanadas are a versatile and enjoyable dish to add to your culinary repertoire.