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Air Fryer Empanadas: Savoury Delights with a Twist

Empanadas, those delectable pastry pockets filled with a variety of ingredients, have captured the taste buds of food lovers across the globe. Originating from Spain and deeply rooted in Latin American cuisine, these delightful treats can be filled with anything from meat to vegetables, making them incredibly versatile. With the introduction of the air fryer, making empanadas at home has never been easier or healthier. In this article, we will explore a simple recipe for air fryer empanadas filled with either chicken or beef, perfect for a snack, appetiser, or even a main meal.

The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

The air fryer is a kitchen marvel that uses hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This means that you can enjoy your favourite fried foods with significantly less fat and fewer calories. Empanadas cooked in an air fryer maintain their delightful crispiness while being lighter on the waistline, making them a popular choice for health-conscious home cooks.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 ½ cups plain flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 large egg
• 5–6 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling (Choose Chicken or Beef)

Chicken Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped (optional)

Beef Filling

• 2 cups ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Method

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the plain flour and salt. Add the cubed chilled butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Add the egg and enough cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a smooth dough. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Chicken Filling

1. In a medium frying pan, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes. If desired, mix in fresh coriander. Set aside to cool.

Beef Filling

1. In a medium frying pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the flavours meld. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3mm thickness. Use a round cutter (approximately 10cm in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
3. Place a tablespoon of filling in the centre of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security and decoration.
4. Brush each empanada with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Air Fry the Empanadas

1. Place the empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. You may need to cook them in batches.
2. Air fry for approximately 10–12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of dipping sauces, such as chimichurri, salsa, or a drizzle of sour cream. Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal or serve them as part of a sharing platter for guests.

Conclusion

Air fryer empanadas are a fantastic option for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious treat without the guilt of deep frying. With the choice of a chicken or beef filling, you can easily cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a starter, or a main course, these empanadas are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and treat yourself to this savoury delight!

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