National Empanadas Day

Young woman with a chef hat, proudly displaying a tray of freshly baked empanadas, colorful kitchen background, vibrant cooking utensils.. — National empanadas day illustration

Get your taste buds ready, because it's time to celebrate National Empanadas Day! On this delightful occasion, we pay tribute to these bite-sized treasures of deliciousness. Whether you prefer them baked or fried, stuffed with meat or veggies, empanadas are a beloved treat that have captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. So let's dig in and find out more about the history and flavors of this delectable dish!

When is Empanadas Day?

It's national empanadas day on the 9th April.

The Origin of Empanadas

Empanadas can be found in various cultures across the globe, each with their unique twist on the recipe. These savory pastries have a long and tasty history, dating back centuries. The word 'empanada' is derived from the Spanish verb 'empanar,' which means 'to bread' or 'to wrap in bread.'

The origins of empanadas can be traced back to Galicia, a region in northwest Spain. Spanish sailors and traders took this delectable treat with them on their voyages, spreading its popularity across the seas. As empanadas reached the shores of Latin America and the Caribbean, they assimilated local ingredients and culinary traditions, creating a vast array of regional varieties.

A World of Empanadas

Empanadas come in all shapes and sizes, with each region putting its own unique spin on the classic recipe. Let's take a mouthwatering tour around the world and explore some of the most beloved empanada variations:

1. Argentine Empanadas

This South American country is famous for its mouthwatering empanadas. Argentine empanadas are typically baked and filled with a variety of delicious fillings, such as beef, chicken, ham and cheese, or spinach and cheese. These flavorful pockets of goodness are a staple at parties, picnics, and family gatherings.

2. Chilean Empanadas

The Chilean version of empanadas features a unique combination of flavors. They are traditionally baked and filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, black olives, raisins, and a boiled egg. The dough is often flavored with a pinch of cumin, giving these empanadas a distinctive taste.

3. Mexican Empanadas

Mexican empanadas are a true fiesta for your taste buds! These fried treats are made with a masa dough stuffed with mouthwatering fillings like shredded chicken, cheese, or spicy chorizo. They are often garnished with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

4. Filipino Empanadas

In the Philippines, empanadas are a popular street food. These golden, deep-fried delights are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, potatoes, onions, and peas. The dough gets its vibrant color from annatto seeds, giving the empanadas an enticing appearance.

These are just a few examples of the wide range of empanadas enjoyed around the world. Each country, region, and even family may have their own secret recipes and cooking methods, adding their personal touch to these beloved pastries.

Celebrate National Empanadas Day!

Now that you know a little more about the history and flavors of empanadas, it's time to celebrate! Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of your favorite empanadas, and savor each delicious bite. Whether you're a fan of the traditional recipes or eager to experiment with new flavors, National Empanadas Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in these mouthwatering treats. So bring on the empanadas and let the celebration begin!

History behind the term 'Empanadas'

9th century

The Origin of Empanadas

Empanadas have their roots in Spain and Portugal during the Middle Ages. The word 'empanada' is derived from the Spanish verb 'empanar,' which means 'to coat with bread.' These early empanadas were essentially small meat pies, filled with a variety of ingredients such as chicken, beef, or seafood, and wrapped in a bread dough crust.

1520

The Arrival of Spanish Colonizers

Empanadas can trace their origins back to 1520 when Spanish colonizers arrived in the Americas, bringing with them their culinary traditions. The term 'empanada' is derived from the Spanish verb 'empanar,' which means 'to bread' or 'to wrap in bread.' The colonizers introduced various ingredients and cooking techniques, including the art of making stuffed pastries.

1700s

Empanadas Across Latin America

During the 1700s, empanadas began to spread across Latin America. Each country added its own unique twist to the dish, resulting in a wide variety of flavors and fillings. Empanadas became a staple in countries like Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Colombia, and many others. Each region developed its own traditional fillings, such as beef, chicken, cheese, vegetables, or seafood.

16th century

Empanadas in the New World

With the arrival of Spanish and Portuguese explorers in the Americas, empanadas made their way across the Atlantic. The empanada quickly became a popular dish in Latin America due to its portability and versatility. It was easily adaptable to local ingredients and flavors, making it a staple of the region's cuisine.

19th century

Empanadas in Argentina

In the early 19th century, empanadas gained widespread popularity in Argentina. The dish became an essential part of Argentine culture, with various regions developing their own unique styles and fillings. Empanadas became a go-to food for gauchos (Argentine cowboys) due to their convenience and ability to satisfy hunger while on the go.

1800s

Empanadas in North America

In the 1800s, empanadas made their way to North America through migration and trade. Spanish-speaking communities brought their culinary heritage, sharing these delicious pastries with new cultures and regions. Over time, empanadas gained popularity in the United States, particularly in areas with thriving Hispanic communities.

20th century

Empanadas globally

During the 20th century, empanadas continued to spread beyond Latin America and gain international recognition. They can now be found in numerous countries worldwide, with each region adding its own twist to the classic dish. Whether filled with sweet or savory ingredients, empanadas have become a beloved culinary delight enjoyed by people of all backgrounds.

20th Century

Empanadas Go Global

In the 20th century, empanadas became recognized as a globally loved dish. With the rise of international cuisine and cultural fusion, empanadas found their way onto menus in diverse restaurants around the world. Their portability, rich flavors, and versatility made them appealing to people of different backgrounds and tastes.

Did you know?

Did you know that empanadas are so versatile that they can be enjoyed as both a savory and sweet treat? Some adventurous bakers even create dessert empanadas filled with fruits, chocolate, or dulce de leche. It's the perfect fusion of flaky pastry and decadent sweetness!