Sourdough Discard Empanadas

Sourdough Discard Empanadas bring a delightful twist to the traditional recipe, offering a comforting warmth and flaky texture that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through your kitchen as these golden-brown pockets of goodness emerge from the oven, filled with a delicious combination of savory fillings. These empanadas are an excellent way to make use of your sourdough discard, transforming what might otherwise go to waste into something truly special. Enjoy them for dinner, a snack, or even as an impressive appetizer for friends and family.

To work the dough effortlessly, I like using my KitchenAid 4.5-quart stand mixer, it mixes the butter and sourdough discard perfectly and saves so much time. It’s one of those tools that makes homemade empanadas feel surprisingly easy.

Reasons to Love These Sourdough Discard Empanadas

Sourdough Discard Empanadas are not only delicious, but they also offer a range of benefits that make them a must-try:

• They help reduce food waste by utilizing sourdough discard.
• The dough is incredibly flaky and tender, providing a delightful contrast to the filling.
• They’re versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste.
• Empanadas are perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance for busy weeknights.

With these enticing characteristics, it’s no wonder they have found a special place in home kitchens everywhere.

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up your own batch of Sourdough Discard Empanadas, you’ll need a selection of simple yet effective ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in creating that delightful flavor and texture, and remember, you can swap in turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner touch or use ground chicken for the filling as suits the dish best.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sourdough discard
• 1/4 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 cup filling of choice (seasoned ground chicken, ground turkey, or your favorite cheese and vegetables)

Helpful Tools for This Recipe

Here are a few tools that make the dough and filling come together even more smoothly:

• Pastry cutter – perfect for cutting cold butter into the flour so the dough stays flaky and tender.
• Non-stick skillet – useful for cooking the filling without sticking and getting great flavor.
• Sourdough starter jar kit – keeps your discard organized and ready for baking sessions.
• Rolling pin – essential for rolling the dough thin enough to fold clean, beautiful empanadas.

How to Prepare Sourdough Discard Empanadas

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious Sourdough Discard Empanadas:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Give it a light stir to incorporate the ingredients evenly, ensuring a well-seasoned dough.

2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small bits of butter still visible for a flaky texture.

3. Gently stir in the sourdough discard until it forms a crumbly mixture that begins to come together.

4. Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough forms a cohesive ball. It should feel moist but not sticky.

5. Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. The dough should be soft and pliable, with a slightly elastic texture.

6. Place your chosen filling in the center of each round of dough, taking care not to overfill. Leave enough space at the edges for sealing.

7. Fold the dough over to encase the filling and press the edges together firmly. To secure the empanadas, you may crimp them with a fork or pinch the edges with your fingers for a decorative touch.

8. Bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the kitchen is filled with a mouthwatering aroma.

   
   

Prep ~25 minutes, Cook ~30 minutes, Total ~55 minutes, Servings ~12, Kcal ~200 per empanada (estimate).

Prepare in Advance

Sourdough Discard Empanadas can be a great addition to your meal prep routine. You can roll out the dough and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. Once filled, lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them before baking. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container for easy storage.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll always have homemade empanadas on hand whenever cravings strike!

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe!), store your Sourdough Discard Empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in a single layer in a freezer-friendly bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months; just be sure to label the container.

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the empanadas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain their crispiness while ensuring they are heated properly. The perfect cue for freshness is a warm, flaky exterior and a delightful filling.

Perfect Pairings

Sourdough Discard Empanadas can shine on their own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with a zesty chimichurri or tangy salsa for an added flavor punch.
• Pair with a simple salad of mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Offer a side of seasoned black beans for a more filling meal.
• Present a creamy avocado dip to complement the savory pastries.

Variations and Swaps

Feel free to get creative with your Sourdough Discard Empanadas! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• For a vegetarian twist, fill them with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese.
• Swap in ground turkey for a lean protein option that’s equally delicious.
• Create a breakfast version by stuffing them with scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, and cheese.
• Try a spiced potato and cheese filling for a hearty option that’s sure to please.
• Use leftover roasted vegetables for a quick and easy stuffing that’s packed with flavor.
• For a sweeter version, fill with fruit preserves or chocolate for delightful dessert empanadas.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure your Sourdough Discard Empanadas turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use cold ingredients for the dough; this helps create a flaky texture.
• Let the filled empanadas rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking for better texture.
• Space them out on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and browning.
• Keep an eye on the color while baking — look for a rich golden-brown hue.
• A thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) internally for proper cooking of meat fillings.

Sourdough Discard Empanadas FAQs

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
  Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor but keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly.

• What other fillings work well?
  You can experiment with various fillings, including cheese, beans, or veggies. Just remember to season well!

• Can I bake them instead of frying?
  Absolutely! Baking the empanadas is a healthier option and still gives them a delightful crisp.

• How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
  Be sure to crimp the edges securely, and avoid overfilling to keep everything contained.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Empanadas are not only delicious but also an inventive way to minimize waste in your kitchen. Their tender crust enveloping flavorful fillings makes them a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. As the enticing aromas fill your kitchen, you and your loved ones will be eager to enjoy these savory treats fresh from the oven. So why not give them a try? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embrace the joy of cooking with this charming recipe.

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