Tuna, Corn, and Mozzarella Empanadas

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

Start by preparing the empanada dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Knead it for a few minutes until smooth, then cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is resting, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the flaked tuna and sweet corn, stirring to combine. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, add the shredded mozzarella cheese and mix to incorporate. The cheese will melt into the tuna and corn mixture, giving the filling a creamy texture.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter (a cup or a bowl) to cut out circles of dough, about 4-5 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the tuna, corn, and mozzarella filling in the center of each dough circle.

Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, enclosing the filling. Press the edges together with your fingers, then seal them by crimping with a fork. If you’re baking them, brush the tops with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a tablespoon of water). If you’re frying them, heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to medium-high heat.

4. Cook the Empanadas:

• For Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
• For Frying: Carefully fry the empanadas in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. These can be served on their own or with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or a tangy dipping sauce of your choice.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, like olives, capers, or chopped tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Dough Alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought empanada dough or even puff pastry to speed up the process.
• Freezing Empanadas: If you’re making a large batch, these empanadas freeze beautifully. Before frying or baking, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy storage. When you’re ready to eat them, bake or fry them straight from the freezer.

Conclusion

Tuna, Corn, and Mozzarella Empanadas are a delicious, easy-to-make treat that will satisfy your savory cravings. With a simple yet flavorful filling encased in crispy, golden pastry, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home. Try this recipe today and discover how these flavorful empanadas can become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire!