National Dish Paraguay: Cassava Empanadas (Recipe)
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Say hello to Cassava Empanadas, a much-loved treasure of Paraguayan cooking! These savoury little pastries wrap a soft, tender cassava dough around a warm, flavour-packed filling before being fried to a golden crisp. Soft on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside, they can be filled with cheese, meat or vegetables to suit any occasion. Bring a taste of Paraguay straight to your own kitchen with this irresistible classic.
About Cassava Empanadas
Cassava Empanadas are an undisputed classic of Paraguayan cooking and enjoy huge popularity across the country. These savoury pastries are built around a tasty cassava dough that can be paired with a whole range of fillings. More often than not they are stuffed with cheese, meat or vegetables, which makes them wonderfully versatile. If you ever find yourself in Paraguay, or simply want to get closer to the local culture, these empanadas are an absolute must.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g cassava (mandioca)
- 100 g cheese (optional: feta or mozzarella)
- 1 small onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
To make the very best Cassava Empanadas, it is important to choose fresh ingredients. The cassava should be firm and free of dark patches. Visit your local market or an Asian grocery to track down the best produce. The cheese also plays an important role here — fresh cheese lends the filling a creamy, delicious flavour that makes all the difference.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, it is worth gathering all your ingredients and getting them ready. The cassava needs to be peeled and boiled until it is soft enough to be mashed. This step can take a little time, but it is essential for the best empanadas. Make sure you also prepare the onion and garlic, as they add a lovely aromatic depth to the filling.
Step-by-step instructions
- Peel the cassava, cut it into pieces and bring to the boil in a pan of water, cooking until soft.
- Drain the cooked cassava and mash it until you have a smooth dough.
- Finely chop the onion and garlic and fry them in a pan until golden brown.
- Combine the onion and garlic mixture with the mashed cassava and the cheese, stirring well.
- Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each one. Add the filling and fold the empanadas over.
- Heat plenty of oil in a pan and fry the empanadas until golden.
- Drain the finished empanadas on kitchen paper and serve warm.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
One of the great advantages of Cassava Empanadas is that they are naturally gluten-free. To make the recipe suitable for anyone with a lactose intolerance, you can use lactose-free cheese or simply leave the cheese out altogether. Either way, the recipe keeps its delicious flavour. This makes it easy for people with special dietary needs to enjoy the dish to the full.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
If you would like to prepare a vegan version of the Cassava Empanadas, simply leave out the cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative. Many vegans reach for nut cheese or homemade cashew cheese, which offers a gorgeous flavour and creamy texture. You can also enrich the filling with sautéed vegetables such as peppers or spinach for extra depth. The choice is far greater than you might think, so everyone can enjoy a tasty result. For more meat-free inspiration, take a look at Vori Vori de Verduras.
More tips and tricks
To make your empanadas even more flavourful, you can add different herbs and spices to the filling. Parsley, cumin or even a touch of chilli can lift the taste considerably. Experiment with different fillings until you find your own favourite combination. It is also worth making sure the pastries are well sealed, so the filling does not leak out during frying.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Cassava Empanadas are wonderfully adaptable. You can experiment with different fillings depending on personal preference and what is in season. Try a filling of mushrooms or tofu, for example, for a special twist on the flavour. Let your creativity run free and play with different combinations to create the perfect empanada that suits your taste exactly. The same versatile spirit shines in Bollos de Yuca Rellenos.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have some of the ingredients to hand, there are plenty of alternatives to fall back on. Instead of cassava you can also use potatoes to create a similar dough that is just as delicious. If you have no cheese, try filling the empanadas with a mix of puréed vegetables instead. This flexibility makes the recipe ideal for spontaneous cooking sessions, much like the ever-adaptable Mandioca Frita.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with Cassava Empanadas. A freshly squeezed lime or orange juice works wonderfully against the savoury flavours. If you prefer something alcoholic, a light Paraguayan beer or a refreshing caipirinha-style cocktail could be an excellent choice. A glass of ice-cold Tereré is another quintessentially Paraguayan option that rounds off the meal perfectly.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays an important part in getting the most out of the dish. Serve your Cassava Empanadas on a colourful plate and garnish them with fresh herbs or a matching dip such as a garlic sauce or a spicy sauce. A side of fresh salad also works well. Remember to vary the colours on the plate to make the meal look even more inviting.
A bit of history
Cassava Empanadas have their roots in indigenous Paraguayan cooking and are a fine example of the region’s culinary fusion. Cassava is a staple food in many South American countries and plays a central role in a whole host of traditional dishes across Paraguayan cuisine. Over the years the methods of preparation have evolved, and there are now many variations to be found. This dish is not just a treat — it also tells the story and culture of Paraguay.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Cassava Empanadas
Cassava Empanadas are a wonderful way to experience the flavours of Paraguay and prepare them yourself. With their unique cassava dough and the sheer variety of filling options, they are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them as a snack or as a main course, this traditional recipe brings a slice of South American culture to your table. Let the aromas win you over and enjoy these delicious little pastries.
