Mozzarella and Garlic Empanadas
Cheesy empanada variations are popular in both Southern Europe and Latin America. Mozzarella cheese originates from the Mediterranean region, while empanada pastry is a favorite stuffed pastry from Spanish cuisine. This dish combines the two cultures in modern kitchens, where the intense flavor of garlic perfectly complements the creaminess of melted cheese. As the mozzarella melts, its aroma immediately whets the appetite, filling the kitchen with a Mediterranean atmosphere. The secret lies in properly sealing the dough: if you don't press it thoroughly, the filling may escape during baking. Tip: you can replace the parsley with fresh basil for extra aroma. This empanada is perfect for a casual weekend dinner or as a welcoming dish for guests, perhaps accompanied by a glass of red wine.
Ingredients for this recipe
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Preparation Steps
1
Grate the mozzarella cheese or cut it into small pieces. Peel and crush or finely grate the garlic. Tip: fresh garlic will give a more intense flavor than garlic powder.
2
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, crushed garlic, chopped parsley, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This will be the flavoring mixture that we add to the cheese. The parsley adds freshness to the filling.
3
Add the mixture to the grated mozzarella and mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. This will be your filling, which we recommend chilling in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to prevent the cheese from melting during filling.
4
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 3 mm and cut out circles with a diameter of 10-12 cm. Tip: the dough should not be too thin, otherwise it may tear during filling.
5
Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the pastry in half and press the edges together with a fork to seal well and prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
6
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden-brown color. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is crispy and golden.
