National Dish Philippines: Empanada Ilocos Style (Recipe)
In this article
Say hello to the Empanada Ilocos Style, a crisp, golden parcel of pastry that has become a true icon of the northern Philippines. Its tell-tale orange shell, coloured with annatto, hides a savoury filling of spiced meat and vegetables that makes it irresistible as a snack or a centrepiece for a celebration. With a crunchy bite and a deeply satisfying centre, this is street-food comfort at its very best — easy to bring to life in your own kitchen.
About Empanada Ilocos Style
The Empanada Ilocos Style is a genuine delicacy of Filipino cooking, especially beloved in the Ilocos region of the north. This crisp pastry parcel makes a popular snack and an ideal dish for festive gatherings. Its characteristic orange colour usually comes from annatto, a natural colouring that also lends a gently earthy aroma. The fillings vary, but they commonly feature flavourful pork, minced beef and an assortment of vegetables. The result is a hearty handful that is as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g plain wheat flour
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons annatto oil or paste
- 100 ml water
- 200 g minced meat (pork or beef)
- 100 g potatoes, diced
- 50 g carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the Empanada Ilocos Style, it is worth paying attention to the quality of your produce. Fresh vegetables give the best flavour and an appealing texture. Asian grocery stores are often the best place to find the freshest ingredients, especially annatto, which gives the pastry its signature colour. A visit to a local market is also a great way to track down fresh herbs and spices that will deepen the flavour of the filling.
Preparing the dish
Preparing the Empanada Ilocos Style begins with making the dough, which forms the foundation of the recipe. Combine the flour, annatto oil, egg and water in a bowl until you have a smooth, even dough. Let it rest for around 30 minutes, which helps build its elasticity. Meanwhile, get the filling ready by frying off the vegetables and meat and seasoning them well, so everything is set when it is time to assemble.
Step-by-step instructions
- Make the dough: knead the flour, annatto oil, egg and water into a smooth dough.
- Rest the dough: leave the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: fry the minced meat, onion, garlic and vegetables in a pan and season.
- Roll out the dough: roll the rested dough out thinly.
- Shape the parcels: cut out circles, place the filling in the centre and seal the edges firmly.
- Fry: cook in a pan of oil over medium heat until golden brown.
- Drain: rest the empanadas on kitchen paper to drain, then serve warm.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of the Empanada Ilocos Style, simply swap the wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Take care that all your other ingredients are gluten-free too. For a lactose-free preparation, it helps to use a lactose-free egg or a plant-based egg alternative. That way you can enjoy the dish without missing out on any of its delicious flavours.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan take on the Empanada Ilocos Style, replace the meat with a mixture of fried tofu or seitan, bulked out with vegetables such as carrots and spinach. The egg in the dough can be swapped for a blend of water and flaxseed or chia seeds, which gives a similar texture. Be sure to fry in plant-based oils too. This keeps the dish entirely plant-based while still full of flavour.
More tips and tricks
When making the Empanada Ilocos Style, experiment with different spices to tune the flavour to your liking. Cumin and paprika can add extra depth. Another handy tip is to fry the empanadas over a slightly lower heat, so they brown evenly without scorching. Make sure your oil is hot enough, though — that is the secret to a properly crisp shell every time.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The Empanada Ilocos Style is wonderfully versatile and easy to tailor to personal taste. Use your favourite vegetables in the filling, or try different meats such as chicken or turkey. You could even add cheese for a creamier version of the filling. Be creative and see which combinations you like best — much like the playful variety you find across Filipino cuisine.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have certain ingredients for the Empanada Ilocos Style to hand, there are plenty of alternatives. In place of annatto oil, turmeric works well to achieve a similar golden colour. With the vegetables, feel free to reach for seasonal varieties to guarantee freshness and flavour. Those same hearty fillings shine in a rolled treat like Empanada Ilocano. Substitutions like these let you shape the dish to suit your own ideas.
Drink pairing ideas
To round off the experience of the Empanada Ilocos Style, think about drinks that complement its flavours beautifully. A classic Filipino choice is calamansi juice, whose refreshing tartness pairs perfectly with the crisp pastry. Ginger ale or a simple fruity lemonade are also great options for widening the flavour spectrum. For an alcoholic partner, a light beer or a fruity wine makes a fine choice.
Serving and presentation ideas
The Empanada Ilocos Style can be presented very attractively too. Serve the empanadas on a rustic wooden board, perhaps with fresh herbs or slices of lime for decoration. A tasty dipping sauce, such as a garlic or chilli sauce, can be served alongside to make the dish even more inviting. Arranging everything on bright, colourful crockery is another lovely way to delight your guests’ eyes.
A bit of history
The Empanada Ilocos Style has its roots in Filipino culture, which has been shaped by a wide range of influences. Empanadas were introduced by Spanish colonists and, over the years, developed into a local speciality of the Ilocos region. They are not only a popular snack but also a symbol of local gastronomy and tradition. The way they are made reflects the cultural diversity and creativity of Filipino cooking, much like fellow Ilocos favourites such as Dinengdeng Ilocano and Pinakbet Ilocano.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Empanada Ilocos Style
The Empanada Ilocos Style is a delicious, versatile dish that shines as both a snack and a main course. Its combination of spiced meat and fresh vegetables wrapped in that signature orange pastry makes it a highlight of any celebration. With a host of adaptations and filling possibilities, this recipe suits absolutely everyone and is easily tailored to personal taste. Let the flavours of the Philippines win you over and enjoy the Empanada Ilocos Style in all its delicious variations.
