Mexican Pizza Empanadas

Mexican Pizza Empanadas are a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine, combining the flavors of both into a delicious handheld treat. The empanada, a staple in Latin American cuisine, is traditionally a pastry filled with savory ingredients, often deep-fried or baked until golden. The concept of filling this dough with ingredients reminiscent of a pizza offers a unique twist that appeals to lovers of both foods.

History of Empanadas

The empanada is believed to have originated in Galicia, Spain, during the time of the Moorish invasions. The name comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” meaning to wrap or coat in bread. As Spanish colonists traveled to the New World, they brought the empanada with them, and the recipe evolved to include indigenous ingredients available in different Latin American regions.

In Mexican cuisine, empanadas can be filled with a variety of ingredients. The Mexican Pizza Empanada introduces popular Italian-American elements like pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and pizza sauce, blended with Mexican spices to create a zesty, bold flavor.

Ingredients

• Empanada dough
• Pizza sauce
• Mozzarella cheese, grated
• Pepperoni slices
• Jalapenos, sliced
• Olive oil
• Egg, beaten
• Oregano
• Black pepper
• Salt

Preparation Instructions

Preparing the Dough

The empanada dough can either be homemade or purchased from the store. If making from scratch, ensure the dough is rolled out to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles using a round cutter or the rim of a glass, approximately 4-6 inches in diameter.

Preparing the Filling

Blend pizza sauce with chopped jalapenos and a dash of oregano for an extra kick. Lay a couple of pepperoni slices flat on the center of each dough circle, followed by a spoonful of mozzarella cheese. Carefully top with a small amount of sauce mixture, being sure not to overfill, which could lead to the empanadas bursting during cooking.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Empanadas

Fold each dough circle in half to enclose the filling, pressing the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative seal that also helps prevent leaks. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or a beaten egg wash for a glossy finish.

Baking the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until golden brown, approximately 20 to 25 minutes. To ensure perfect timing, use a cooking timer to monitor progress.

Serving Suggestions and Tips for Enjoyment

Mexican Pizza Empanadas can be served hot with a side of guacamole or sour cream for dipping. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad or a light Pasta Salad. These empanadas make excellent party appetizers or snacks. They can also be packed for lunch and enjoyed cold or reheated.

For added flavor, sprinkle a mixture of oregano and black pepper over the tops before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, a sprinkling of red pepper flakes can be mixed into the filling.