What You Should Know About Empanadas

Nothing reminds us more of Latin America than a good homemade empanada, or in some cases, empanadas. These delicious and savory foods are what can make our day that much better. But not many people know the history of the empanada. Learn more about empanadas by reading this article.

How Empanadas Came To Be

The empanadas we came to know and love have evolved from their conception. Analyzing the word empanada, we are immediately told what the food is. Translated directly, the word empanada means, “wrapped in bread”. It is believed that empanadas were first made in Galicia, Spain. 

One thing is for certain it is that empanadas were first made around the 16th century. Empanadas still being made and enjoyed to this day are a testament to how beloved they are. It is thought that empanadas gained popularity in Argentina when Spanish migrants began making them.

Latin American Empanadas

Latin America’s cuisine has brought us many delicious dishes. The  diverse culture and abundance of ingredients is what makes their twist on Latin American dishes so unique. Every country has its own version of an empanada. As mentioned previously, empanada means, “wrapped in bread”, which technically allows you to get a bit creative. 

Latin American empanadas are a bit different from what many people have tasted. Although they are not that different in appearance, it is on the inside that counts. Unlike other empanadas, which have chicken or potato. 

Latin American empanadas go by another name. They are called, “Empanadas de Viento”. The poetic name comes from the appearance and feeling the empanadas have when they are being fried. ‘Viento’ means wind, which is the way they puff up in the fryer. If they are done right, they are soft to the touch.

These empanadas have cheese, and sometimes, a little bit of onion. It is often accompanied by powdered sugar or granulated sugar. 

Empanadas have been a staple in many Latin American countries. Due to their flexibility, they can be filled with anything that works. Why not give this empanada a try? Who knows, it might end up being your favorite!