Craving something deliciously unique? Imagine biting into a perfectly flaky, golden empanada filled with tender, seasoned shrimp. Shrimp empanadas are more than just a snack—they’re a flavor-packed culinary adventure. Ready to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your kitchen? Let’s make these irresistible shrimp empanadas recipe and turn your home into the ultimate dining spot.
What is a Shrimp Empanada?
Picture this: a pastry pocket of love, where flaky meets savory in a mouthwatering embrace. A shrimp empanada is essentially a culinary hug, combining the tenderness of perfectly seasoned shrimp tucked into a blanket of dough that’s either baked or fried to golden perfection.
It’s a flavor-packed journey with each bite, transporting you to a place where the symphony of spices, shrimp, and dough sing in perfect harmony. These little pockets of joy are versatile, too—dress ’em up for a fancy gathering or keep it casual for a chill night in.
What Does a Shrimp Empanada Taste Like?
A shrimp empanada offers a symphony of flavors and textures. The crispy, buttery pastry contrasts with the tender, succulent shrimp filling, which is infused with spices like paprika and garlic, along with a hint of sweetness from sautéed onions and peppers. The result is a rich, savory treat with layers of complexity, offering a bite-sized experience of culinary harmony.
Step by Step Instructions in Making Shrimp Empanadas
Ingredients and Tools
- For the Empanada Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Frying pan
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step by Step Instructions in Making Shrimp Empanadas
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your hands or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until soft.
- Add the chopped shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque. Let the mixture cool.
Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out round disc shapes using a bowl or a cutter.
- Place a spoonful of the shrimp mixture in the center of each disc. Add cheese if using.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal edges by pressing with a fork.
Cook the Empanadas:
- For baking, place empanadas on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
- For frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry empanadas until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
How Long It Takes to Make
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Yield | 12 empanadas |
Pro Tip:
Keep the dough and butter cold to ensure a flaky texture. Don’t overfill the empanadas to maintain a perfect seal and prevent leaks during cooking.
Wrapping Up
Shrimp empanadas are a perfect blend of taste and versatility. Their rich, flavorful filling paired with buttery, flaky pastry makes them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, these empanadas are sure to impress.
The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability—suitable for any occasion, customizable with your favorite fillings, and perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. So, roll up your sleeves, bring the flavors to life, and let your kitchen transform into a culinary hotspot!
