Rapa Nui Empanadas

Rapa Nui Empanadas are a traditional Easter Island dish that features a delicious combination of flavors wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. These empanadas are perfect for a savory snack or a light meal.

Vegetarian Appetizer Pascuense (Easter Island) Rapa Nui Empanadas Pascuense Cuisine Traditional
Rapa Nui Empanadas

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, 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. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Add the ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out circles using a round cutter or a small plate as a guide.
  5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture, some chopped olives, and a few pieces of hard-boiled egg on one half of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal.
  6. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
  8. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

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

Supplies

Rolling pin Baking sheet Parchment paper

Tools

Skillet Round cutter or small plate

Serving suggestions

Serve the Rapa Nui Empanadas with a side of fresh salad or aji (chili sauce) for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans.

Cost

$15