Empanadas, those delicious pastry pockets filled with savory ingredients, have been a staple in many Latin American countries for centuries. But have you ever wondered what other culinary delights are similar to empanadas? In this article, we’ll embark on a gastronomic journey to explore the similarities between empanadas and other tasty treats from around the world.
A Brief History of Empanadas
Before we dive into the similarities, let’s take a brief look at the history of empanadas. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish word “empanar,” which means “to wrap in bread.” Empanadas originated in Latin America, specifically in countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Colombia, where they were filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. Over time, empanadas spread throughout the world, with different countries adapting their own unique fillings and cooking methods.
Similarities with Savory Pastries
Empanadas are often compared to other savory pastries from around the world. Here are a few examples:
Samosas
Samosas, a popular Indian snack, are similar to empanadas in that they are also filled with savory ingredients, such as spiced potatoes, peas, and onions. Like empanadas, samosas are typically fried or baked and served as a snack or appetizer.
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls, a staple in Asian cuisine, are also similar to empanadas. While they are typically filled with vegetables and sometimes meat, spring rolls are wrapped in a thin dough wrapper and fried or steamed. Like empanadas, spring rolls are often served as a snack or appetizer.
Pierogi
Pierogi, a traditional Polish dish, are similar to empanadas in that they are also filled with savory ingredients, such as meat, cheese, and potatoes. Like empanadas, pierogi are typically boiled and then fried or baked.
Similarities with Meat-Filled Delights
Empanadas are also similar to other meat-filled delights from around the world. Here are a few examples:
Calzones
Calzones, a type of Italian turnover, are similar to empanadas in that they are also filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. Like empanadas, calzones are typically baked and served as a snack or meal.
Panzerotti
Panzerotti, a type of Italian dough pocket, are similar to empanadas in that they are also filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. Like empanadas, panzerotti are typically fried or baked and served as a snack or meal.
Turnovers
Turnovers, a type of pastry filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables, are similar to empanadas in that they are also a type of savory pastry. Like empanadas, turnovers are typically baked and served as a snack or meal.
Similarities with Latin American Delights
Empanadas are also similar to other Latin American delights, such as:
Arepa
Arepas, a type of Venezuelan cornmeal flatbread, are similar to empanadas in that they are also filled with savory ingredients, such as cheese, meat, and vegetables. Like empanadas, arepas are typically grilled or baked and served as a snack or meal.
Churros
Churros, a type of fried dough pastry, are similar to empanadas in that they are also a popular Latin American snack. While churros are typically sweet, they can also be filled with savory ingredients, such as cheese or meat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, empanadas are similar to a variety of savory pastries and meat-filled delights from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and savory or sweet and indulgent, there’s an empanada-like treat out there for you. So next time you’re in the mood for something new, try exploring the world of empanadas and discover the delicious similarities for yourself.
Empanada-Like Treats from Around the World
Here’s a list of empanada-like treats from around the world:
- Samosas (India)
- Spring Rolls (Asia)
- Pierogi (Poland)
- Calzones (Italy)
- Panzerotti (Italy)
- Turnovers (Global)
- Arepas (Venezuela)
- Churros (Latin America)
Try Making Your Own Empanadas
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own empanadas at home. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
- 1/4 cup warm water
- Filling ingredients (e.g. ground beef, cheese, vegetables)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add lard or shortening and mix until dough comes together.
- Gradually add warm water and mix until dough is smooth.
- Divide dough into small balls and roll out each ball into a thin circle.
- Place filling ingredients in the center of each circle.
- Fold dough over filling and press edges together to seal.
- Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: This is just a basic recipe, and you can experiment with different fillings and cooking methods to create your own unique empanada creations.
What are empanadas similar to in terms of pastry?
Empanadas are similar to various types of pastry pockets from around the world, such as samosas from India, spring rolls from Asia, and panzerotti from Italy. These pastries share similarities with empanadas in terms of their composition, consisting of a filling enclosed by a dough wrapper. The fillings can vary greatly depending on the region and culture, but the concept of a pastry pocket remains the same.
The pastry itself can also be compared to other types of dough-based foods, such as calzones or savory turnovers. However, empanadas have a distinct flavor and texture that sets them apart from other pastry pockets. The type of dough used, the fillings, and the cooking methods all contribute to the unique characteristics of empanadas.
What are some popular empanada fillings similar to other international dishes?
Empanada fillings can be similar to those found in other international dishes, such as the beef and onion filling, which is reminiscent of a traditional British pasty. The chicken and vegetable filling is similar to the filling found in a Chinese egg roll. Additionally, the seafood filling, often featuring shrimp and fish, is similar to the filling found in a Spanish paella.
Other fillings, such as the cheese and ham or the chorizo and egg, are similar to those found in quiches or frittatas. The fillings can vary greatly depending on the region and personal preferences, but many empanada fillings draw inspiration from international cuisine. This diversity of fillings is what makes empanadas so unique and flavorful.
How do empanadas compare to savory pastries like quiches or strata?
Empanadas can be compared to savory pastries like quiches or strata in terms of their composition and fillings. However, empanadas are typically smaller and more portable than quiches or strata. Empanadas also have a thicker, more robust crust than quiches or strata, which are often made with a flaky or puff pastry.
Another key difference is the cooking method. Empanadas are often fried or baked, whereas quiches and strata are typically baked in a large dish. This difference in cooking method affects the texture and flavor of the final product. Empanadas have a crispy exterior and a soft interior, while quiches and strata are often more dense and eggy.
What is the difference between empanadas and samosas?
Empanadas and samosas are both pastry pockets filled with various ingredients, but they have some key differences. Samosas are typically smaller and more delicate than empanadas, with a thinner crust. Samosas are also often fried, whereas empanadas can be fried or baked.
The fillings of samosas and empanadas can also differ greatly. Samosas often feature spiced potatoes, peas, and onions, while empanadas can have a wide range of fillings, from beef and chicken to cheese and vegetables. Additionally, samosas are often served as an appetizer or snack, while empanadas can be served as a main course or dessert.
How do empanadas compare to calzones or stromboli?
Empanadas can be compared to calzones or stromboli in terms of their composition and fillings. However, empanadas are typically smaller and more delicate than calzones or stromboli. Empanadas also have a thicker, more robust crust than calzones or stromboli, which are often made with a thin, pliable dough.
Another key difference is the filling. Calzones and stromboli often feature tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, while empanadas can have a wide range of fillings. Additionally, empanadas are often fried or baked, whereas calzones and stromboli are typically baked in a large oven.
What is the difference between empanadas and spring rolls?
Empanadas and spring rolls are both pastry pockets filled with various ingredients, but they have some key differences. Spring rolls are typically smaller and more delicate than empanadas, with a thinner crust. Spring rolls are also often served as an appetizer or snack, while empanadas can be served as a main course or dessert.
The fillings of spring rolls and empanadas can also differ greatly. Spring rolls often feature vegetables and sometimes meat or shrimp, while empanadas can have a wide range of fillings, from beef and chicken to cheese and vegetables. Additionally, spring rolls are often served with a dipping sauce, while empanadas are often served on their own or with a side of salsa or guacamole.
Can empanadas be compared to any sweet pastries or desserts?
Yes, empanadas can be compared to sweet pastries or desserts, such as turnovers or danishes. Sweet empanadas often feature fillings like apples, cherries, or dulce de leche, which are similar to the fillings found in turnovers or danishes.
However, sweet empanadas are often smaller and more delicate than turnovers or danishes, with a thicker, more robust crust. Sweet empanadas are also often fried or baked, whereas turnovers and danishes are typically baked in a large oven. Additionally, sweet empanadas can be served as a dessert or snack, while turnovers and danishes are often served as a breakfast or brunch item.