Caprese empanadas
User Reviews
4.7
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Prep Time
30 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Additional Time
30 mins
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Servings
15 medium sized empanadas
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Cuisine
South American
Caprese empanadas
Description
These Caprese empanadas feature a filling of grated or crumbled mozzarella combined with chopped tomatoes and fresh basil. The mixture is spooned onto empanada dough discs, which are then folded and sealed by crimping or using a mold. An egg wash glaze promotes browning and a shiny exterior during baking.
Baking at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes yields golden, crisp pastry with melted, savory cheese and fresh tomato interior. The empanadas replicate the essence of Caprese salad in a portable format. Serving them with a basil-garlic sauce enhances the fresh herb flavors.
For optimal results, chilling assembled empanadas before baking helps maintain the seal around the cheese, reducing leakage during cooking. Alternatively, frying the empanadas creates a different texture and also helps contain the cheese filling.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese grated or crumbled
- 2 tomato any kind, chopped, medium sized
- basil chopped, large handful
- 15 empanada discs can use store-bought or make your own empanada dough for baking or for frying
- 1 egg whisked - to be used as egg wash
To serve:
- basil sauce
- garlic sauce
Instructions
- Mix the grated mozzarella, chopped tomatoes, and basil in a bowl.
- To assemble the empanadas, place a spoonful or two of the cheese mixture on the middle of each empanada disc.
- Fold the empanada discs and seal the edges. You can either use a fork to help seal the empanadas, or use your fingers to twist and curl the edges creating a churito or curl type seal. You can also use an empanada mold to seal the empanadas.
- If you have time, for best results, especially since these empanadas contain cheese, chill the empanadas for at least 30 minutes before baking, this will help them seal better and prevent leaks.
- Before baking, brush the top of the empanadas with the egg yolk; this will give a nice golden glow when they bake.
- Bake in a pre-heated oven at 400F for 18-20 minutes or until golden.
- Serve the caprese empanadas with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- Chilling assembled empanadas before baking helps prevent cheese leaks and improves sealing.
- These empanadas can be fried instead of baked; fry in oil deep enough to cover half the empanada, turning until golden.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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