Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe
Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe is the perfect choice! With its golden, crispy crust and savory filling, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or family dinner. Inspired by the popular Bahama Breeze restaurant, this empanada brings tropical Caribbean flavors right to your kitchen.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet or frying pan
- Fork for sealing the empanadas
- Knife for chopping ingredients
- Spoon for filling
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken or beef, shrimp, or a vegetarian option
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers
- ¼ cup chopped onions
- ½ cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack works well
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of empanada dough store-bought or homemade
- 1 egg for egg wash
- Oil for frying if frying
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven or Heat Oil
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you’re baking the empanadas. Alternatively, heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat if you're frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken (or your chosen filling), bell peppers, onions, cheese, cumin, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Roll out the empanada dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter or the edge of a glass, cut out circles of dough, about 4 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Add the Filling
- Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, or they may not seal properly.
Step 5: Fold the Empanadas
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly with your fingers or use a fork to seal them.
Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Brush the egg wash over the empanadas to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
Step 7: Bake or Fry the Empanadas
- If baking, place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. If frying, carefully place the empanadas in hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Step 8: Drain and Cool
- If frying, drain the empanadas on paper towels to remove excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a tangy salsa, sour cream, or a zesty lime aioli. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful treat!
Step 10: Garnish (Optional)
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Notes
The Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen. Whether you choose to bake or fry these golden, crispy empanadas, you’re guaranteed a flavorful treat that is perfect for any occasion. The filling is easily customizable to suit your tastes—be it shredded chicken, beef, shrimp, or a vegetarian combination of beans and veggies.
These empanadas are ideal for casual get-togethers, dinner parties, or even as a fun snack. The key to getting the perfect texture is to ensure your dough is sealed tightly around the filling, and to avoid overfilling to keep them from bursting. For an even crispier finish, frying them in oil adds an extra delicious crunch that’s hard to resist.
Serve these empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces, like tangy salsa, sour cream, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted veggies on the side. Make a batch of these and watch how quickly they disappear!