National Dish Paraguay: Paraguayan Empanadas (Recipe)
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Meet Paraguayan Empanadas, the savoury little pastries that many regard as the true national dish of Paraguay. Each parcel wraps a tender filling of spiced meat, sweet peppers and onion in a golden, crisp-fried shell that shatters at the first bite. Whether handed round as a snack or piled onto a plate as a main course, they carry the authentic flavour of Paraguay straight to your table. Simple to make and impossible to resist, they turn any gathering into something worth celebrating.
About Paraguayan Empanadas
Paraguayan Empanadas are a cornerstone of Paraguayan cooking and are widely seen as one of the country’s defining dishes. These savoury turnovers are prized for their varied filling, which usually brings together beef or chicken, vegetables and a handful of aromatic spices. Traditionally they are served not only as a snack but also as a satisfying main course, which makes them a firm favourite for all kinds of occasions. Easy to prepare and full of character, they bring the genuine taste of Paraguay to your own kitchen.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g plain flour
- 100 g beef or chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed
Shopping for the ingredients
To make the perfect Paraguayan Empanadas, it is worth choosing fresh ingredients from the start. When buying the meat, look for good-quality cuts, ideally sourced locally. In the same way, the vegetables and spices should be fresh and fragrant, as they play a decisive part in the flavour of the finished dish. Shopping at a local market often gives you the chance to chat with the sellers and pick up a few handy tips on preparation.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin making the Paraguayan Empanadas, have all your ingredients ready and well prepared. That means cooking and shredding the meat, as well as getting the vegetables chopped and ready to go. Depending on your taste, you can also add extra ingredients to vary the flavour. Careful preparation means the cooking itself goes far more quickly and smoothly later on.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt and gradually add water until you have a smooth, supple dough.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut out circles using a cutter or the rim of a glass.
- Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the onion and pepper until soft.
- Add the shredded meat and the spices, then stir well to combine.
- Place a tablespoon of filling in the centre of each dough circle, fold over the edges and press them together firmly with your fingers.
- Fry the filled empanadas in hot oil until golden brown.
- Drain on kitchen paper and serve hot.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For anyone with a gluten intolerance, it is easy to make Paraguayan Empanadas gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free flour in place of the ordinary kind. The fillings can also be adjusted slightly to keep things lactose-free. Take care to choose products clearly labelled as gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can prepare Paraguayan Empanadas with an array of plant-based ingredients. Instead of meat, use a mixture of vegetables, pulses and spices. A combination of black beans, sweetcorn and avocado makes for a nourishing and delicious filling. Use plant-based fats in place of any animal products to keep the dish fully vegan.
More tips and tricks
To turn out the best Paraguayan Empanadas, take care not to roll the dough too thinly, or it may split during frying. Getting the oil to the right temperature is just as important for an even, golden finish, so a kitchen thermometer is well worth using. An extra pinch of spices can deepen the flavour and make the empanadas even more moreish.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of Paraguayan Empanadas lies in how versatile the recipe is. You can adapt the basic method by trying different fillings, such as fish or tofu for an alternative source of protein. The spices, too, can be varied to suit your own palate. Experiment with your favourite ingredients until you find the perfect combination for you. They sit happily alongside heartier plates from Paraguayan cuisine such as a slow-cooked stew.
Ingredient substitutions
There are plenty of alternatives for the ingredients in Paraguayan Empanadas. A popular swap for meat is plant-based mince, which is now widely available in supermarkets. To make things even simpler, you can use ready-made pastry discs that only need filling and frying. Just check the ingredients list to be sure they meet your dietary needs. If you would rather build the parcels from scratch, the dough for Empanadas de Mandioca offers a cassava-based twist worth trying.
Drink pairing ideas
Paraguayan Empanadas pair beautifully with a range of drinks. A classic Paraguayan Tereré — chilled mate tea — is a wonderful match for these savoury parcels. For something with a little alcohol, a light, fruity beer or a refreshing sangria works well. These choices round off the meal perfectly and bring out the best in the empanadas.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your Paraguayan Empanadas can lift the whole meal. Serve them on a colourful plate, garnished with a fresh salad or some avocado for a touch of colour and freshness. A dedicated dip, such as a spicy sauce or garlic mayonnaise, can sit alongside to finish things off. Remember to serve them warm, as empanadas taste best freshly made.
A bit of history
Paraguayan Empanadas have a long and rich history, closely tied to the culture and traditions of Paraguay. These pastries trace their origins to Spanish cooking but, over the centuries, were adapted to local ingredients and tastes. They are not only a much-loved street food but also a fixture at Paraguayan celebrations and festivals — much like Asado, the grilled feast at the heart of many gatherings. Making and sharing empanadas brings friends and family together and celebrates Paraguayan identity.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Paraguayan Empanadas
Paraguayan Empanadas are a delicious and versatile option that suits any occasion. Whether as a snack, a main course or part of a festive spread, these savoury pastries are always a hit. With fresh ingredients and a wealth of possible fillings, you can tailor them exactly to your taste. Bring a piece of Paraguayan culture into your kitchen and enjoy this genuine treat.
