Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe
Looking for a tasty and easy-to-make dish? Try the Bahama Breeze empanada recipe! These savory empanadas feature a chicken and cheese filling wrapped in a homemade dough, and can be baked or fried to perfection. With customizable fillings and seasonings, these empanadas are perfect for any occasion. Get the full recipe and step-by-step instructions here.
- Publisher: Lofty Recipes
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Category: Appetizer
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 200 calories
Bahama Breeze Empanada
About this recipe
Bahama Breeze empanadas are a popular Caribbean-inspired dish that's enjoyed around the world. These savory pastries are typically filled with a mixture of seasoned chicken and melted cheese, although there are many different variations and fillings that you can try.
Some recipes may also include vegetables, seafood, or other meats, making it a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking.
The empanada dough is made from a simple mixture of flour, salt, butter, and water, and can be either baked or fried to achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Baking the empanadas is a healthier option, while frying them creates a more indulgent and satisfying texture. Regardless of which method you choose, the end result is a delicious and satisfying snack or meal that's perfect for any occasion.
One of the great things about Bahama Breeze empanadas is that they can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main dish, or a snack on-the-go.
They're also a great way to introduce friends and family to the flavors of the Caribbean, and can be served alongside other Caribbean-inspired dishes such as rice and beans, plantains, or jerk chicken.
Bahama Breeze empanadas are a tasty and versatile dish that's easy to make and customize to your preferences. Whether you're new to Caribbean cuisine or a seasoned pro, these empanadas are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Recipe origin and background
Bahama Breeze is a restaurant chain that specializes in Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The restaurant was founded in Orlando, Florida in 1996 and has since expanded to several locations throughout the United States.
While Bahama Breeze does serve empanadas on their menu, it's not clear what the specific origin or background of their empanada recipe is.
Nevertheless, empanadas are a popular dish in many Latin American and Caribbean countries, and there are many variations of the dish that incorporate different fillings, spices, and cooking methods.
Why try this Bahama Breeze Empanada recipe?
There are a few reasons why you might want to try making Bahama Breeze-style empanadas at home:
- They're delicious: Caribbean-style empanadas are known for their savory and flavorful filling, crispy exterior, and satisfying taste. If you're a fan of Caribbean cuisine or just looking to try something new, these empanadas are definitely worth a try.
- They're easy to make: While making empanadas from scratch may seem intimidating, this recipe is actually quite simple and straightforward. Most of the ingredients can be found at your local grocery store, and the empanadas can be assembled and fried in just a few steps.
- They're versatile: Empanadas make a great appetizer, snack, or even a main course if served with a side salad or rice. They can also be customized to suit individual tastes by varying the filling ingredients or spices used.
- They're a crowd-pleaser: If you're entertaining guests, empanadas are a fun and unique appetizer that are sure to impress. Plus, since they're handheld, they're perfect for serving at parties or other events.
Bahama Breeze-style empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
So why not give them a try and see for yourself?
What does Bahama Breeze Empanada taste like?
Caribbean-style empanadas like the ones served at Bahama Breeze typically have a savory and slightly spicy flavor profile, with a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful filling.
The filling usually includes a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices, and can be customized to suit individual tastes.
Caribbean-style empanadas are known for their delicious and satisfying taste, making them a popular appetizer or snack in many parts of the world.
What is in Bahama Breeze Empanada?
- Empanada dough: You can make your own dough or use store-bought empanada dough, which is typically made with flour, water, salt, and sometimes other ingredients like butter or shortening.
- Ground beef: This is the main filling ingredient for the empanadas. You can also use ground chicken, turkey, or pork if you prefer.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatic ingredients add flavor to the filling.
- Bell pepper: Red or green bell pepper adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the filling.
- Tomato sauce: This adds richness and depth of flavor to the filling.
- Cumin and smoked paprika: These spices are commonly used in Caribbean cuisine and add a smoky, earthy flavor to the filling.
- Salt and pepper: These seasonings are used to taste, and help balance the flavors of the filling.
- Egg wash: This is used to brush the empanadas before baking or frying, which helps give them a golden, crispy exterior.
- Vegetable oil: This is used for frying the empanadas.
Equipment required for this recipe
- Large skillet: This is used to cook the ground beef and vegetables for the filling. If you don't have a large skillet, you could use a large pot or Dutch oven instead.
- Mixing bowl: This is used to mix the filling ingredients together. Any type of mixing bowl will work.
- Rolling pin: This is used to roll out the empanada dough. If you don't have a rolling pin, you could use a wine bottle or any other cylindrical object.
- Pastry cutter or knife: This is used to cut the empanada dough into circles. If you don't have a pastry cutter, you could use a small bowl or even a sharp knife.
- Baking sheet: This is used to bake the empanadas in the oven. If you don't have a baking sheet, you could use a large oven-safe platter or casserole dish instead.
- Brush: This is used to apply the egg wash to the empanadas. If you don't have a brush, you could use your fingers or a piece of paper towel.
- Deep fryer or deep skillet: This is used to fry the empanadas. If you don't have a deep fryer, you could use a deep skillet or Dutch oven instead.
How to make Bahama Breeze Empanada
Make delicious Bahama Breeze empanadas at home with this easy-to-follow recipe! Customizable fillings and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 package of empanada dough (you can find this in the frozen section of most grocery stores)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Add the onion, garlic, red and green bell peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and the beef is fully cooked.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Cut the dough into circles using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
- Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
- Brush the edges of the dough circles with beaten egg.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the empanadas in the hot oil until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried empanadas to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
Serve the empanadas hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired. Enjoy!
How to serve Bahama Breeze Empanada
- Once the empanadas are cooked (either baked or fried), let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack or paper towel to allow any excess oil to drain off.
- Serve the empanadas hot or warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Alternatively, you can serve them as-is without a dipping sauce.
- Empanadas can be served as a main course, side dish, or appetizer depending on the occasion. If serving as a main course, you might want to pair them with a side salad or rice to round out the meal.
- You can also garnish the empanadas with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, or add a sprinkle of crumbled cheese or diced avocado for extra flavor and texture.
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Recipe Tags: Bahama Breeze Empanada, Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe, Recipe, Top rated
What to serve Bahama Breeze Empanada with
Bahama Breeze-style empanadas can be served as a main course or as an appetizer, and can be paired with a variety of side dishes depending on your preferences. Here are some ideas for what to serve with empanadas:
- Rice and beans: A classic combination in Caribbean cuisine, serving empanadas with a side of rice and beans is a delicious and filling option.
- Salad: A fresh and colorful side salad is a great way to balance out the rich and savory flavors of the empanadas. Try a simple green salad with a citrus-based dressing or a creamy avocado dressing.
- Plantains: Fried plantains, also known as tostones or maduros, are a popular side dish in Caribbean cuisine and pair well with empanadas.
- Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw is another great side dish option for empanadas. Try a vinegar-based slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions.
- Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that pairs well with empanadas.
- Salsa and chips: A side of fresh salsa and tortilla chips is a simple and tasty option for dipping alongside the empanadas.
My recommendations and tips
- Be sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This will help the dough to firm up and make it easier to handle.
- Don't overfill the empanadas, or they may burst open during cooking. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada, depending on the size.
- If baking the empanadas, brush them with egg wash before placing them in the oven. This will help them to develop a nice golden brown color and crisp texture.
- If frying the empanadas, be sure to heat the oil to the correct temperature (350-375°F) before adding the empanadas. This will ensure that they cook evenly and don't absorb too much oil.
- Be creative with the filling! While the recipe for Bahama Breeze-style empanadas calls for a chicken and cheese filling, you can experiment with different fillings to suit your tastes. Try using ground beef, shredded pork, or vegetarian fillings like black beans and sweet potatoes.
- Serve the empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces to add extra flavor and texture. Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are all great options.
- Finally, don't be afraid to make a double batch! Bahama Breeze-style empanadas freeze well and can be reheated in the oven for a quick and easy meal or snack.
How to store Bahama Breeze Empanada
To store Bahama Breeze-style empanadas, follow these steps:
- Allow the empanadas to cool completely before storing them. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Place the empanadas in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
- If you're storing the empanadas in the refrigerator, they will keep for 3-4 days.
- If you're storing the empanadas in the freezer, they will keep for up to 3 months.
- If you're freezing the empanadas, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. This will help prevent freezer burn and make it easier to thaw them later.
- When you're ready to eat the empanadas, you can either reheat them in the oven or microwave. To reheat them in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the empanadas for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat them in the microwave, place the empanadas on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Potential ingredients substitutes
- Chicken: The recipe calls for cooked chicken, but you can substitute it with cooked ground beef, shredded pork, or cooked and crumbled chorizo sausage.
- Cheese: The recipe calls for Monterey Jack cheese, but you can substitute it with cheddar, pepper jack, or any other type of cheese you like.
- Red bell pepper: You can substitute the red bell pepper with green bell pepper, poblano pepper, or any other type of sweet pepper.
- Green onions: You can substitute the green onions with regular onions or shallots.
- Garlic: If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead.
- Adobo seasoning: This is a popular seasoning blend in Latin American cuisine, but if you can't find it, you can substitute it with a blend of cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Empanada dough: If you don't want to make the dough from scratch, you can use store-bought empanada wrappers or even puff pastry.
Remarks
In conclusion, Bahama Breeze-style empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any occasion.
This recipe features a savory chicken and cheese filling wrapped in a homemade empanada dough and either baked or fried to perfection.
With a little practice and experimentation, you can customize the filling and seasoning to suit your tastes and create a dish that's uniquely yours.
Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, Bahama Breeze-style empanadas are sure to be a hit!