These traditional Ecuadorian green empanadas are made with a delicious corn dough mixed with cilantro and filled with cheese, showcasing the unique flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine.
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Peel 3 of the plantains and cook them whole in a saucepan with water over medium heat for about 15 minutes, or until tender.
Remove from water and mash them with a fork until smooth.
Peel and grate the remaining raw plantain and add it to the mashed mixture.
Mix in the egg yolk, butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until you get a soft, uniform dough.
Roll out the dough on parchment paper using a rolling pin and cut into circles approximately 15 cm in diameter. Set aside.
In a pan, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil until translucent.
Add the minced pork and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
Add the chopped carrots and peas, and cook over low heat for about 15 minutes.
Stir in the chopped hard-boiled egg and parsley. Mix well and remove from heat. Allow to cool.
Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to form a half-moon and seal the edges with a fork.
Fry the empanadas in hot oil until golden brown.
Serve the Ecuadorian green empanadas hot, ideally right after frying.
Make sure to seal the empanadas well to prevent the filling from spilling out during frying.
Use parchment or plastic wrap when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.
Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?
Yes, but they may not be as crispy. Brush them with oil and bake at 200°C (390°F) for about 25 minutes or until golden.
What can I serve with these empanadas?
Serve warm with a side of avocado salsa or spicy Ecuadorian ají sauce.
Can I substitute the pork with another meat?
Yes, ground beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian mix can be used instead of pork.
How do I ensure the empanadas are sealed properly?
Press the edges closed with a fork to seal them well and prevent the filling from spilling out during frying.
What is the best way to flatten the dough?
You can use a rolling pin or a tortilla press to flatten the dough to a uniform thickness.
