Frying Argentine Empanadas: Air Fryer Magic

Empanadas are a popular snack with roots in Spain and Latin America. They are made by filling pastry dough with meat, cheese, or vegetables and then baking or frying them. Air fryers have become a popular alternative to deep frying empanadas, as they produce a similar crispy texture without the use of excess oil. In this article, we will explore the process of making Argentine empanadas in an air fryer, including the ingredients, cooking instructions, and potential variations.

Air fryer vs deep-frying: a healthier, less greasy option

Deep-fried treats, from donuts to fried chicken, are hard to beat. But air fryers have become incredibly popular in recent years, and for good reason.

Health

Air fryers are a healthier option than deep fryers. Deep fryers use a lot of oil, which equals extra calories and clean-up time. All that fat can be bad for your heart, and the clean-up can be a hassle. Air fryers, on the other hand, use fast-spreading hot air to cook your food, resulting in less oil and a healthier meal.

Taste

Deep-fried foods have a classic crispy, fluffy texture that is hard to replicate. However, air fryers deliver a better taste as your food cooks with all the flavour and seasoning. The result is an almost caramelized taste that is incredibly delicious. While air-fried foods may not have the same deep-fried crisp, the crunch is still there.

Ease

Deep fryers require more effort and maintenance than air fryers. You need to keep an eye on the hot fat that is bubbling away, and the clean-up involves a lot of oily tissue and bowls to dispose of. Air fryers, on the other hand, are much easier to clean. You can simply put the cooking elements in the dishwasher.

Cost

Deep fryers tend to be cheaper than air fryers upfront, but the cost of oil adds up over time. Air fryers are typically more expensive, but they also go on sale frequently. They can also be used to cook a wider variety of foods, making them a more versatile appliance.

Speed

Deep-fried foods cook faster than air-fried foods. However, the preparation and clean-up time for deep frying is longer, so the overall time spent may be similar.

So, which is the better option? It depends on your preferences and needs. If you're looking for that classic deep-fried taste and texture, a deep fryer is the way to go. But if you want a healthier, less greasy option that is easier to clean and more versatile, an air fryer is a great choice.

Filling options: beef, chicken, vegetarian, or sweet

Empanadas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, and the air fryer is a great way to cook them. Here are some ideas for beef, chicken, vegetarian, and sweet fillings:

Beef

For beef empanadas, you can use ground beef or leftover beef picadillo as your filling. You can also add jalapeños to the meat for a spicy kick. If you're using ground beef, you can make a simple filling by seasoning the meat with cumin, onion powder, and salt. You can also add other ingredients like cheese, salsa, or refried beans to the filling.

Chicken

Chicken empanadas are a great option for a quick and tasty meal. You can use shredded chicken, either white or dark meat, and combine it with salsa, cheese, and Mexican spices. You can also add cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess. Another option is to use leftover Mexican chicken, which already has the seasoning you need.

Vegetarian

There are several vegetarian options for empanada fillings. You can use sautéed cabbage, shredded cheese, leftover chili, or even pizza toppings like marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. If you're feeling creative, you can experiment with different combinations of vegetables, beans, and cheeses to find your favorite vegetarian filling.

Sweet

For a sweet twist on empanadas, you can make dessert empanadas filled with apple cheesecake, caramelized onion, or even chocolate. You can also play with different types of dough, such as using a sweeter pie crust or adding annatto to the dough for a golden yellow color and a nutty flavor.

No matter which filling you choose, the cooking method for air-fried empanadas remains the same. Simply place your filled and sealed empanadas in the air fryer in a single layer, and cook at 330-350°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crisp.

Glaze/egg wash: for that golden crust

The glaze or egg wash is an important step in achieving the perfect golden crust on your empanadas. It also helps seal the empanadas shut, ensuring that the filling doesn't leak out during the cooking process. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for creating the perfect glaze or egg wash:

Egg Wash

If you decide to use an egg wash, you can use either a whole egg or just the egg whites. Start by whisking the egg or egg whites with a small amount of water. You can also add a little olive oil to the mixture if desired. Brush this mixture over the empanadas before placing them in the air fryer. This step will give your empanadas a beautiful golden crust and a shiny appearance.

Glaze

If you prefer to avoid using eggs, you can create a glaze by mixing milk with a pinch of turmeric and paprika. You can also use non-dairy milk or water mixed with honey or maple syrup as an alternative. Brush this glaze onto the empanadas before placing them in the air fryer. This will give them a golden colour and a slightly crispy texture.

Other Options

If you don't want to use eggs or make a glaze, you can simply brush the empanadas with olive oil or vegetable oil before placing them in the air fryer. Cooking spray can also be used to achieve a similar effect.

Remember, the glaze or egg wash not only enhances the appearance of your empanadas but also helps seal them shut, so don't skip this step!

Air fryer temperature and timing: 350°F for 8 minutes

Air fryers are a great way to cook empanadas, and you can achieve a perfectly crispy and golden brown exterior without the mess of deep-frying.

To cook Argentine empanadas in an air fryer, first prepare your empanada dough and filling. You can make your own dough or use store-bought; a good option is to look for frozen empanada "discos" made with flour, butter, and salt, which you can find in the freezer section of most supermarkets. For the filling, you can use anything you like, from beef or chicken to vegetables or cheese.

Once you have your dough and filling ready, it's time to assemble the empanadas. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the centre of each disc, being careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers or using a fork.

Before placing the empanadas in the air fryer, brush them with an egg wash (a mixture of beaten egg and a little water) to help them turn golden brown and crispy. You can also just spray them with olive oil if you don't want to use eggs.

Now you're ready to cook! Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they're not overcrowded. Set the temperature to 350°F and cook for 8 minutes, turning them halfway through or until they're golden brown and crispy.

And that's it! You now have delicious, crispy Argentine empanadas cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or meal.

Storage and reheating: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will ensure they stay fresh and maintain their quality. It is also important to bring them to room temperature before storing them to prevent condensation, which can lead to a soggy crust.

To reheat, place the empanadas in the air fryer at 330°F for about 5 minutes, or until they are heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in a skillet on the stove over medium heat with a small amount of oil.

If you want to freeze your empanadas, they can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat them, pop them into the air fryer straight from frozen and cook at 350°F for about 12 minutes, or until they are hot all the way through.

Frequently asked questions