Empanada de cordero – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Spain Servings: Serves 4
Spain Servings: Serves 4Empanada de Cordero, or Lamb Empanadas, is a rich and flavorful dish that hails from the culinary traditions of Spain. These golden pastries are filled with tender lamb, rich spices, and a harmonious blend of vegetables, offering a taste that is both comforting and exotic. Traditionally, empanadas are enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and are deeply embedded in Spanish cuisine, each region adding its unique twist to the recipe.
Ingredients
- ground lamb – 1 pound / 450 g
- olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- onion – 1 large, finely chopped
- red bell pepper – 1, finely chopped
- garlic cloves – 3, minced
- paprika – 1 teaspoon
- ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
- salt – 1 teaspoon
- black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- green olives – 1/2 cup / 75 g, sliced
- raisins – 1/4 cup / 40 g
- empanada dough – 1 pack (for 10 empanadas)
- egg – 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper, sauté until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add ground lamb. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned.
- Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Mix in sliced olives and raisins, cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Roll out one empanada dough disk at a time, place 2 tablespoons of lamb mixture in the center.
- Fold the dough over the filling, seal the edges with a fork. Repeat for all empanadas.
- Brush each empanada with beaten egg and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Substitutions
- ground lamb -> ground beef
- green olives -> black olives
- raisins -> dried cranberries
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a marination step for the lamb with spices overnight to deepen the flavors.
- Incorporate a touch of sherry or white wine to elevate the aroma.
- Consider adding chopped hard-boiled eggs for traditional flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
