Air-Fryer Empanadas: A Tasty, Healthy Twist

Empanadas are a popular snack, appetizer, or meal that can be deep-fried or baked. But can you put them in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Air-fried empanadas are a healthier alternative to deep-fried ones as they use less oil and are less greasy. They are also easier to make and won't fill your kitchen with that thick fry oil smell. You can make them with chicken, beef, or even vegetarian fillings, and they come out crispy and golden brown.

How to make empanadas in an air fryer

Ingredients

• 1 package Goya Empanada Dough Discs (or premade pie crust)
• 8 to 10 ounces of cooked chicken or beef
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3 Tbsp. cheese (any variety)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp water

Method

• Prepare the filling by adding the chopped chicken (or beef), scallions, and cheese to a mixing bowl. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cumin, and mix everything together.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
• Lay out a dough disc on a flat surface. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture to the center of the dough. Dip your finger into the egg wash and run it around the edge of the dough to help seal the empanada. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal.
• Use a fork to crimp the edges carefully. Repeat the process for all the empanadas.
• Turn all the empanadas over so the bottom is facing up. Brush the bottoms with egg wash. Place the egg-wash-brushed side of the empanadas down in the air fryer basket. Add about 5 empanadas at a time, ensuring you don't overcrowd them. Brush the tops with the egg wash as well.
• Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tips

• Seal the edges of the empanadas carefully to avoid the filling leaking out during cooking.
• You can use vegetarian, cheese, or other meat fillings.
• Keep an eye on your empanadas a minute or two before the cooking time is up as air fryers can vary.
• For a low-carb version, substitute the traditional dough with an almond flour-based dough.
• To make gluten-free empanadas, use gluten-free empanada dough, which you can find in specialty stores or make at home using a blend of gluten-free flours.
• To make dairy-free empanadas, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Serve with homemade salsa, guacamole, or a spicy aioli for dipping. They're also perfect with a side of rice and beans or a simple green salad.

What to fill empanadas with

Empanadas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, depending on your preference. Here are some ideas for savoury fillings:

• Beef: Ground beef with onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. You can also add potatoes, peas, and bell peppers.
• Chicken: Shredded chicken with salsa, or chicken with scallions and cheese.
• Vegetarian: Sauteed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese.
• Cheese: Plain cheese empanadas are also an option.
• Chili: Use leftover chili as a filling.
• Lobster
• Taco meat
• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage.

For those with a sweet tooth, you can try these sweet fillings:

• Peaches and cream
• Apple or peach with cinnamon
• Pumpkin

Empanadas can be customised to your liking, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and create your own unique filling!

How to seal empanadas

Empanadas are a delicious snack, but it's important to seal them properly to avoid any filling leaks. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to seal empanadas for the air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Filling

Before you begin sealing, you'll need to have your empanada dough and filling ready. You can make the dough from scratch or use store-bought empanada discs. If using frozen dough, be sure to defrost it first. For the filling, you can choose from a variety of options, such as beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables.

Step 2: Fill and Seal the Empanadas

Place about 2 tablespoons of your chosen filling in the centre of each disc. Avoid overfilling, as this will make sealing difficult. Fold the dough in half, encasing the filling inside. Use your fingers to press the edges of the dough together firmly, sealing in the filling.

Step 3: Crimp the Edges

To ensure a strong seal and a pretty finish, use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas. This extra step will help prevent any leaks during cooking and give your empanadas a professional look.

Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together an egg and a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the sealed empanadas. This step is optional but will help give your empanadas a golden, crispy finish.

Step 5: Air Fry

Place your sealed empanadas in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook in batches if necessary. Set the air fryer temperature to between 330°F and 400°F, and cook for around 8 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Tips for Success:

• Don't overfill your empanadas, as this will make sealing difficult and may cause leaks during cooking.
• Ensure the edges are well sealed by pressing them together with your fingers and then crimping with a fork.
• For a golden, crispy finish, apply an egg wash before air frying.
• If you don't want to use an egg wash, you can simply spray the empanadas with olive oil before air frying.
• Depending on your air fryer and the size of your empanadas, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature slightly.

By following these steps, you'll be able to enjoy perfectly sealed and cooked empanadas straight from your air fryer!

How to store and reheat empanadas

Empanadas are a delicious snack, but what's the best way to store and reheat them? Here's a detailed guide to ensure your leftover empanadas taste just as good as when they were fresh.

Storing Empanadas

Firstly, it's important to let your empanadas cool down completely before storing them. You have two main options for storage:

• Refrigerator: If you plan to eat the empanadas within a day or two, the fridge is a good option. Place them in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag to keep them fresh.
• Freezer: For longer storage, the freezer is your best bet. Again, use an airtight container or Ziploc bag, or wrap each empanada individually in aluminium foil. Properly stored frozen empanadas will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Empanadas

There are several methods to reheat empanadas, each with its own advantages:

• Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F. Place 2-4 empanadas in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 7-10 minutes, checking frequently and flipping halfway, until heated through and crispy. For frozen empanadas, cook for 10-12 minutes. You can brush the empanadas with a little oil before air frying for extra crispness.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, leaving some space between each one. Bake for 10-15 minutes for room-temperature empanadas, and 20-25 minutes for frozen ones. The oven is great for keeping the pastry nice and flaky.
• Microwave: The microwave is a quick option, but it can make the pastry soft. Place 1-2 empanadas on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes. Check frequently and be careful not to overheat, as the filling can get too hot.

Tips for Perfectly Reheated Empanadas

• Brush the tops of the empanadas with oil or egg wash before reheating in the oven or air fryer for an extra golden, crispy crust.
• If you're reheating in the oven, place a rack below the baking sheet to crisp the bottom crust.
• Always let the empanadas cool slightly before serving, as the filling can be very hot.
• When reheating frozen empanadas, it's best to thaw them first. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the outside from getting too crispy before the inside is warmed through.

How to cook frozen empanadas in an air fryer

What You'll Need:

• Frozen empanadas (store-bought or homemade)
• Air fryer
• Cooking oil spray or egg wash (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to preheat. This is the ideal temperature for cooking your frozen empanadas.

Step 2: Prepare the Empanadas:

Place your frozen empanadas directly into the air fryer basket. You can spray them with cooking oil spray or brush them with an egg wash before cooking for a crispier texture. This step is optional but can enhance the flavor and appearance of your empanadas.

Step 3: Air Fry:

Close the air fryer and cook the empanadas for 10 minutes. Then, open the air fryer and flip the empanadas. Apply more cooking spray or egg wash to the other side, if desired. Air fry the second side for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Cool and Serve:

Remove the cooked empanadas from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your freshly cooked empanadas!

Tips and Tricks:

• No need to thaw: You can cook frozen empanadas directly from the freezer. Avoid thawing them beforehand, as this can make the pastry soggy and cause the filling to spill out.
• Avoid overcrowding: Place the empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Check regularly: Keep an eye on your empanadas during cooking, especially towards the end, to prevent overcooking.
• Customize fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste preferences. Popular options include meat, vegetables, cheese, and even sweet fillings like apple.
• Serve with dips: Empanadas go well with various dips, such as sour cream or tomato sauce.

Enjoy the convenience and delicious results of cooking frozen empanadas in your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions