Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa Despensa LatinaEmpanadas Salvadoreñas Recipe

Empanadas Salvadoreñas Recipe

Inspired by La Despensa Latina
Time1h 30m
Serves8

Salvadorian Empanadas

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Mixing Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.

  2. 2

    Incorporating Butter

    Add the unsalted butter to the dry ingredients, and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. 3

    Adding Water

    Gradually add water to the flour mixture, mixing with your hands until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

  4. 4

    Resting the Dough

    Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature.

Filling Preparation

  1. 5

    Mixing the Filling

    In a medium bowl, combine the mashed plantains, cooked black beans, crumbled queso fresco, ground cumin, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Assembly and Cooking

  1. 6

    Rolling Out the Dough

    After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). On a floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle.

  2. 7

    Filling the Empanadas

    Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

  3. 8

    Frying the Empanadas

    In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the empanadas in batches, frying until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  4. 9

    Draining and Serving

    Remove the empanadas from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.

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