Growing up in a household that celebrated diversity through food, I was introduced to Empalmes at a young age. This traditional dish passed down through generations, has become a symbol of familial bonds and an ode to the rich heritage of my ancestors. With each bite of this mouthwatering creation, I am transported back to moments of laughter around the dinner table, where stories flowed as freely as the tantalizing aromas that filled the air.
How to make Empalmes
Empalmes, also known as “Empanadas de Plátano” in some regions, encapsulate the essence of comfort food with a delightful twist. Originating from the heart of Latin American cuisine, this recipe showcases the ingenious use of plantains – a versatile and beloved ingredient that takes centre stage in this culinary masterpiece. The dish combines the earthy sweetness of ripe plantains with a savory medley of ingredients, resulting in a harmonious marriage of flavors that dance upon the taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 ripe plantains
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or your preferred protein)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (assorted colors)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup cooked and diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Start by peeling the ripe plantains and cutting them into chunks. Place them in a pot of boiling water and cook until they are soft and easily mashed with a fork.
- Drain the cooked plantains and mash them thoroughly until smooth. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Combine the mashed plantains, all-purpose flour, salt, and vegetable oil in a mixing bowl. Knead the mixture until a soft and pliable dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, you can add a touch of water.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers, cooked and diced potatoes, frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the shredded chicken (or your preferred protein) to the skillet. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook until the filling is heated and the flavours melded together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
3. Assemble the Empalmes:
- Take a small ball of the plantain dough and flatten it into a circle on your palm or a clean surface. You can use a rolling pin if desired, but the dough is soft enough to shape by hand.
- Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the centre of the dough circle.
- Gently fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal the empalme. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Fry:
- Heat vegetable oil for frying over medium-high heat in a deep skillet or pot. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Carefully add the empalmes to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the empalmes from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the empalmes to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth. They can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Serve the empalmes as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main course alongside a fresh salad or salsa.
Tips:
- Ensure that the plantains are ripe but not overly soft for the best texture and flavor.
- To suit your preferences, experiment with different fillings such as cheese, beans, or vegetables.
- When folding the dough over the filling, make sure to seal the edges well to prevent any leaks during frying.
- Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature while frying to achieve perfectly crispy empalmes.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the empalmes in the oven until they are golden brown.
What to serve with
Dipping Sauces:
Enhance the flavors of your empalmes by serving them with a selection of delicious dipping sauces. Consider options like:
- Salsa Verde: A tangy and vibrant green salsa made from tomatillos, green chillies, and fresh herbs. Its zesty kick pairs wonderfully with the savory empalmes.
- Spicy Mango Chutney: The sweet and spicy notes of mango chutney provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the empalmes.
- Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic-infused mayonnaise-based sauce that adds a rich and indulgent element to the dish.
- Chipotle Mayo: The smoky and spicy flavors of chipotle peppers blended into creamy mayo create a fantastic dipping companion.
Fresh Sides:
Balance the hearty empalmes with a variety of fresh and vibrant side dishes:
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a crisp contrast to the empalmes’ texture.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light and crisp salad featuring a medley of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole add a creamy element and a touch of coolness to the dish.
Rice and Beans
Create a complete meal by serving with a side of fluffy white rice and flavorful beans. The combination adds substance and complements the empalmes’ taste.
Pickled Vegetables
Add a tangy and slightly crunchy element to your empalmes experience with a side of pickled vegetables, such as carrots, onions, or jalapeños.
Fruit Salsas:
Experiment with fruit-based salsas that provide a refreshing and tropical twist to your dish:
- Pineapple Salsa: The sweetness of pineapple combined with spicy jalapeños and fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor.
- Mango-Peach Salsa: A delightful blend of ripe mangoes, juicy peaches, red onions, and lime juice that brings sunshine to your plate.
Beverage Pairings:
To round off your empalmes feast, consider pairing them with beverages that complement the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience:
- Fruit-infused Water: Freshly infused water with slices of citrus fruits, herbs, and berries offers a refreshing and hydrating accompaniment.
- Agua Fresca: A traditional Mexican beverage made from fresh fruits, water, and a touch of sweetness. Flavors like watermelon, cucumber, or hibiscus are popular choices.
- Iced Tea: A chilled herbal or black tea can provide a soothing and complementary beverage option.
Satisfying Sweets:
End your meal on a sweet note with a dessert that echoes the flavors of the empalmes or offers a contrast:
- Fried Plantains: For a sweet treat, continue the plantain theme with fried ripe plantains sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.
- Dulce de Leche: Drizzle or dip empalmes in this luscious caramel sauce for an indulgent and decadent touch.
Final Thoughts
Empalmes embody what makes food so magical—it transcends language barriers, geographical distances, and cultural divides. It can evoke memories of laughter, celebration, and togetherness. With each empalme lovingly crafted and shared, we become part of a culinary narrative that spans continents and generations.
More Delicious Recipes:
Ingredients
- 3 ripe plantains
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or your preferred protein)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (assorted colors)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup cooked and diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Start by peeling the ripe plantains and cutting them into chunks. Place them in a pot of boiling water and cook until they are soft and easily mashed with a fork.
- Drain the cooked plantains and mash them thoroughly until smooth. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Combine the mashed plantains, all-purpose flour, salt, and vegetable oil in a mixing bowl. Knead the mixture until a soft and pliable dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it's too dry, you can add a touch of water.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers, cooked and diced potatoes, frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the shredded chicken (or your preferred protein) to the skillet. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook until the filling is heated and the flavours melded together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
3. Assemble the Empalmes:
- Take a small ball of the plantain dough and flatten it into a circle on your palm or a clean surface. You can use a rolling pin if desired, but the dough is soft enough to shape by hand.
- Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the centre of the dough circle.
- Gently fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal the empalme. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Fry:
- Heat vegetable oil for frying over medium-high heat in a deep skillet or pot. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Carefully add the empalmes to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the empalmes from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the empalmes to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth. They can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Serve the empalmes as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main course alongside a fresh salad or salsa.
