Empanadas de Lechon

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Empanadas de Lechon

Experience the rich flavors of Argentina with these mouthwatering Pork Empanadas, or Empanadas de Lechon. These savory pastries are filled with tender, seasoned pork shoulder, sautéed with aromatic garlic, onions, and vibrant bell peppers. Perfectly baked until golden brown, each bite offers a delightful crunch that gives way to a juicy, flavorful filling. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these empanadas are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion and a true taste of Argentine tradition.

Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • Egg (1, beaten (for egg wash))
  • Empanada dough (2 cups)
  • Salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Bell peppers (1 cup, diced (mix of colors for vibrancy))
  • Onion (1 medium, diced)
  • Pork shoulder (1 pound, cooked and shredded)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the shredded pork shoulder, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Roll out the empanada dough on a floured surface and cut into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
  6. Place a spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of each empanada disc.
  7. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press to seal, and crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers.
  8. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  9. Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  10. Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy warm!

Dietary Information

Servings: 6 • Dish Type: Appetizer/Main Dish • Prep Time: 30 minutes • Cook Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 250 • Fat: 12g • Carbs: 30g • Protein: 15g • Sodium: 400mg • Sugar: 2g