Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRubamba RestaurantEmpanada Recipe

Empanada Recipe

Inspired by Rubamba Restaurant
Time1h 30m
Serves8

Option for chicken or beef or spinach. Yellow cornmeal.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Optional fillings

For frying

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a large bowl, combine yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Add Butter

    Melt the butter and add it to the dry ingredients. Mix until crumbly.

  3. 3

    Add Water

    Gradually add water while mixing until the dough comes together. Knead gently for a minute.

  4. 4

    Rest the Dough

    Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Filling Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook the Filling

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.

  2. 6

    Add Chicken and Spices

    Stir in the shredded chicken, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. 7

    Optional Fillings

    If using ground beef or spinach, add them to the skillet at this stage and cook until heated through.

Assembling and Cooking

  1. 8

    Roll the Dough

    After resting, divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.

  2. 9

    Fill the Empanadas

    Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and crimp edges to seal.

  3. 10

    Heat Oil for Frying

    In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  4. 11

    Fry the Empanadas

    Carefully drop 2-3 empanadas at a time into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

  5. 12

    Drain and Serve

    Remove empanadas from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

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