Llama Empanadas

Llama Empanadas are a traditional Bolivian dish that features a savory filling wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. These delicious hand pies are perfect for a snack or a light meal.

Vegetarian Appetizer Bolivian Bolivian Cuisine Empanadas Hand Pies
Llama Empanadas

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground llama meat (or beef as a substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, tossing with a fork until a dough forms.
  2. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
  4. Add the ground llama meat (or beef) to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs and black olives. Set the filling aside to cool.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out each dough ball into a circle and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  7. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

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
20g
Protein
12g
Fat
14g

Supplies

Large bowl Skillet Baking sheet

Tools

Fork Rolling pin

Serving suggestions

Serve the llama empanadas with a side of salsa or aji sauce for dipping.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, substitute the llama meat with cooked lentils or black beans.

Cost

$15