Vegan Empanada Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add Oil: Pour in the vegetable oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water: Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable but not sticky.
4. Chill: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Peppers and Beans: Stir in the bell pepper, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles of dough (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
2. Fill the Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill; otherwise, they might burst while baking.
3. Seal the Edges: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and added security.

Step 4: Bake

1. Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the assembled empanadas on the sheet, leaving space between each one.
2. Egg Wash Alternative: For a golden crust, you can brush the tops with a bit of non-dairy milk or a mixture of olive oil and water.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Serve

Allow the empanadas to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious on their own but can also be paired with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or vegan sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra touch.

Enjoying Your Vegan Empanadas

These vegan empanadas are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a festive gathering. They are easy to make in batches and can even be frozen before baking for quick meals later on. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to satisfy your cravings while being kind to the planet.

Final Thoughts

Vegan empanadas are a delightful dish that showcases how delicious plant-based cooking can be. With their flaky crust and savory filling, they make a wonderful addition to any meal. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with these tasty treats that will keep them coming back for more!