The combination of fragrant spices, juicy ground turkey, and sweet raisins makes these Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas a flavorful and satisfying dish. The crispy crust encases the rich and aromatic filling, creating a perfect bite every time.
These empanadas are a fantastic option for dinner, lunch, or even as an appetizer for your next gathering. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and can be enjoyed by everyone. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney for an extra burst of taste. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, these empanadas will definitely impress.
Full Recipe:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 large egg, beaten
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in the raisins, cilantro, tomato paste, and water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter.
- Place a tablespoon of the turkey mixture in the center of each circle. Brush the edges with the beaten egg, fold the dough over the filling, and press to seal the edges with a fork.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 empanadas
Background and Cultural Context
Empanadas, a popular dish in many Latin American and Spanish-speaking countries, are versatile pastries typically filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They have a rich history, with roots tracing back to Galicia, Spain, where they were originally made with a variety of fillings and baked or fried. Over time, the empanada has spread across the world, with each region adding its unique twist to the recipe.
This particular recipe, Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas, introduces an exciting fusion of flavors by incorporating Indian spices into the traditional empanada. The use of curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper brings a rich and aromatic profile that perfectly complements the lean turkey meat. The addition of raisins adds a subtle sweetness that balances the spiciness, making each bite a delightful experience.
Nutritional Benefits
These empanadas are not just flavorful but also packed with nutritional benefits. Turkey is a lean source of protein, offering essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth. It is also lower in fat compared to other meats, making it a healthier option for those watching their calorie intake.
The spices used in the filling, such as turmeric and cumin, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits. Turmeric, in particular, contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved brain function and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
By baking instead of frying, these empanadas are also lower in fat and calories, making them a lighter option compared to traditional fried versions. The use of refrigerated pie crusts simplifies the preparation process, making this recipe accessible even to novice cooks.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:
- Appetizers: Serve them with a tangy yogurt dip or a mint chutney to start a meal with a flavorful kick.
- Main Course: Pair them with a simple salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Party Food: These empanadas make excellent finger food for parties and gatherings. You can make them in advance and reheat them just before serving.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the turkey with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers, or use lentils or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level, or add a touch of chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Alternative Pastry: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust, or for a more traditional approach, make your own empanada dough from scratch.
Storage and Reheating
These empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing these Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas, there are a few beverage and side dish options that complement the rich and aromatic flavors of the dish:
- Beverage Pairings:
- White Wine: A crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc or a slightly sweeter Riesling pairs beautifully with the spiced filling, balancing the warmth of the curry with its refreshing acidity.
- Beer: A light lager or a pale ale can cut through the richness of the empanadas, providing a nice contrast without overpowering the dish.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: A cooling cucumber-mint lemonade or a mango lassi can complement the spices while providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Side Dish Pairings:
- Salads: A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a fresh, tangy contrast to the warm, spiced empanadas. Alternatively, a light coleslaw with a yogurt-based dressing would add a creamy, crunchy element to the meal.
- Rice: Serve the empanadas with a side of fragrant basmati rice or a vibrant turmeric rice pilaf to complement the Indian spices in the filling.
- Chutneys and Dips: Mango chutney, mint-cilantro chutney, or a yogurt raita can be served alongside the empanadas to add a burst of flavor and a cooling effect to each bite.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
To ensure that your Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips and techniques:
- Handling the Dough: When working with refrigerated pie crusts, allow them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling them out. This makes the dough more pliable and easier to work with, reducing the risk of cracks or tears.
- Sealing the Empanadas: Make sure to press the edges of the empanadas firmly with a fork to seal them well. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking. You can also brush the edges with a little water or egg wash before sealing to ensure a tight seal.
- Golden Crust: For a beautifully golden and shiny crust, brush the empanadas with beaten egg before baking. This not only enhances the appearance but also adds a slight crunch to the crust.
- Make-Ahead Option: If you’re preparing these for a party or a busy weeknight, you can assemble the empanadas in advance and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Health Considerations
For those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, there are several ways to make this dish even more accommodating:
- Lowering Sodium: To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium tomato paste and be mindful of the amount of salt added to the filling. You can also skip the salt altogether if you’re using a store-bought curry powder that already contains salt.
- Reducing Fat: Although the recipe uses ground turkey, which is lean, you can make it even lower in fat by opting for ground turkey breast instead of dark meat. Additionally, you can use an egg white instead of a whole egg for the egg wash.
- Increasing Fiber: Consider adding finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, peas, or spinach to the filling to increase the fiber content. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds more texture and flavor to the empanadas.
Conclusion
Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas offer a delightful fusion of Latin American and Indian cuisines, bringing together the best of both worlds. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a new dish to impress your guests or simply want to try something different for dinner, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.