Authentic Colombian Empanadas
Learn how to make Colombian empanadas from scratch with a crispy cornmeal dough and a savory beef and potato filling. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or street food favorite, this traditional recipe delivers authentic Colombian flavors right to your kitchen!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling Pin
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper
- Frying pan
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet (for baking option)
- Air fryer (for air frying option)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups masarepa precooked cornmeal
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- ½ pound ground beef or shredded chicken for variation
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil or air-frying/baking alternative
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine masarepa and salt.
- Gradually add warm water while kneading until a smooth, pliable dough forms.
- Add vegetable oil to prevent the dough from drying out.
- Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes to improve elasticity.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Boil the diced potatoes until soft, then mash lightly.
- In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned.
- Stir in mashed potatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
- Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Flatten each ball between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal the edges by pressing with fingers or a fork.
Step 4: Cooking Methods
Frying (Traditional Method):
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry empanadas in batches for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Baking (Healthier Option):
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush empanadas with oil and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Frying (Crispy & Less Oil):
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly coat empanadas with oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble empanadas and freeze them before frying for quick meal prep.
- Gluten-Free: Since masarepa is naturally gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Filling Variations: Try chicken and cheese, black beans and plantains, or a spicy shredded pork version.