Guamanian Chamorro Empanadas

Guamanian Chamorro Empanadas are a popular dish in Micronesian cuisine, featuring a savory filling wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. These delicious hand pies are perfect for a snack or a meal on the go.

Non Vegetarian Snack Micronesian Guamanian Chamorro Empanadas Micronesian Cuisine
Guamanian Chamorro Empanadas

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1/2 cup lard or shortening
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the lard or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, tossing with a fork until a dough forms. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the peas, carrots, black pepper, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let the filling cool.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a round cutter or a small plate as a guide.
  4. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  5. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
30g
Protein
10g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large bowl Skillet Baking sheet Parchment paper

Tools

Fork Round cutter or small plate

Serving suggestions

Serve the Guamanian Chamorro Empanadas with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, you can use store-bought empanada dough instead of making the crust from scratch.

Cost

$15