Empanada de Pisto: A Tasty Spanish Delight
Welcome to the world of Spanish cuisine! Today, we will explore a delicious recipe known as Empanada de Pisto. This savory pastry is filled with a delightful mixture of vegetables and is a favorite in many Spanish households. Pisto is similar to ratatouille, featuring fresh vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini, all cooked together to create a flavorful filling.
The cultural significance of empanadas dates back centuries, with roots in various Spanish-speaking countries. They are often served during celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a tasty snack. The Empanada de Pisto is particularly popular in Spain, especially in regions like La Mancha, where the dish showcases local produce and flavors. This recipe is not only delicious but also very versatile, allowing you to customize the filling based on your preferences!
Now, let’s dive into this mouth-watering recipe that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a school snack!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Flour | 2 cups |
| Butter (or olive oil) | 1/2 cup |
| Cold water | 1/4 cup |
| Tomatoes | 2, chopped |
| Zucchini | 1, diced |
| Bell pepper | 1, diced |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 |
Feel free to substitute butter with margarine or vegetable oil if you prefer. You can also mix in other vegetables like eggplant or carrots!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water until the dough forms. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles (about 5-6 inches in diameter).
- Fill the Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the vegetable mixture on one half of each dough circle. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush and Bake: Beat the egg and brush it over the empanadas. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before enjoying your delicious Empanada de Pisto!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 320 | 16% |
| Protein | 7g | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Sugars | 3g | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 10% | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 20% | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Filling: Try adding cooked meat, cheese, or other vegetables!
- Store Leftovers: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a quick meal later.
- Avoid Soggy Dough: Allow your filling to cool before placing it in the dough to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
What is Pisto?
Pisto is a traditional Spanish dish made of mixed vegetables, often including tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, similar to ratatouille.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
What can I serve with Empanada de Pisto?
These empanadas are great on their own but can also be served with a side salad or dipping sauces like aioli or salsa!
How do I know when they are done baking?
Empanadas are ready when they are golden brown on top. You can also check the bottom for a nice crispy texture.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust or puff pastry can save you time and still taste delicious.
How do I store leftover empanadas?
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for future snacks.
Can I make them ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes! Assemble the empanadas, freeze them before baking, and cook them from frozen whenever you’re ready.
What are some good side dishes?
Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a zesty dipping sauce for extra flavor!
How spicy is the filling?
The filling is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or spicy peppers if you prefer some heat!
Can I use other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your taste preferences or seasonal availability.
Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to enjoy making delicious Empanada de Pisto. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!
