The empanada may be small, but it carries a big story—one filled with history, culture, and flavor. Found across Latin America, Spain, Portugal, and beyond, this baked or fried pastry has earned a place on tables, in street stalls, and in the hearts of food lovers worldwide.
What Is an Empanada?
An empanada is a simple concept: dough folded over a filling and sealed shut before cooking. But don’t let that simplicity fool you. Empanadas can be packed with almost anything—meat, cheese, vegetables, fruits, or seafood. Their versatility makes them a go-to for snacks, appetizers, and even full meals.
The name comes from the Spanish word empanar, meaning “to roll or cover. " The dish is thought to have evolved from Middle Eastern pastries that made their way to the Iberian Peninsula during the Muslim conquest of Spain. Over time, this humble pocket of food adapted to local tastes and ingredients wherever it traveled.
A Dough for Every Region
Empanada dough is typically made from wheat flour and a fat like butter or lard, producing a flaky texture similar to puff pastry. But like everything with empanadas, the dough varies by region.
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Venezuela & Colombia: Often use corn (maize) dough
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Caribbean & Coastal regions: May use cassava or plantain-based dough
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Spain & Argentina: Favor wheat-based dough with rich, buttery layers
Shapes vary too. Half-moon is most common, but some regions prefer round or rectangular versions. Even the seams have flair—crimped, twisted, fork-pressed, or decorated with extra dough to hint at what’s inside.
Fillings That Tell a Story
The inside of an empanada can be a peek into a region’s culture. Here are just a few mouthwatering examples:
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Argentina (Empanadas de Carne): Ground beef, onion, bell pepper, hard-boiled egg—sometimes with raisins for a sweet-savory twist
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Venezuela (Pabellón): Shredded beef, black beans, fried sweet plantains
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Vegetarian Options: Cheese and onion, spinach, or creamy corn
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Seafood Versions: Shrimp, mussels, clams, fish—even shark in coastal areas
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Sweet Empanadas: Filled with guava and cheese, dulce de leche, custards, or fruit preserves
These aren’t just comfort food—they’re cultural expressions.
More Than a Snack
Empanadas are beloved for being cheap, portable, and satisfying. That’s why they’re a street food staple and a crowd-pleaser at family tables. Pair them with dipping sauces—avocado salsas, chimichurri, spicy tomato, or garlic-herb blends—and they shine even brighter.
Final Bite
Whether in Buenos Aires, Bogotá, San Juan, or a small kitchen at home, empanadas bring diverse flavors to your table. It’s a dish that combines history, heritage, and heart—one delicious pocket at a time.
Empanada Recipes, Spruceeats
