Vegan empanadas are a delightful treat originating from Argentina. These soft, doughy pockets can be filled with either a rich sweet potato and lentil mixture or a flavorful mushroom and kale option. The recipe involves creating a simple dough base and preparing one of the two filling options. Both fillings use fresh ingredients to deliver a taste sensation that is both hearty and satisfying.

The preparation process includes making the dough, cooking the selected filling, assembling the empanadas, and baking them until golden brown. Whether you choose the earthy sweetness of the sweet potato and lentil or the savory depth of the mushroom and kale, these empanadas promise an unforgettable culinary experience.

Crafting the Perfect Dough for Your Empanadas

Making the dough forms the foundation of your empanada creation. Combining flour, salt, vegetable oil, and water results in a pliable dough that’s easy to work with. After kneading the ingredients together, it's essential to refrigerate the dough for ten minutes. This step ensures the dough maintains its shape while baking, providing a crisp yet tender texture when cooked.

To begin, gather all-purpose flour, salt, vegetable oil, and cold water. Mix the dry ingredients first before incorporating the wet ones gradually. Kneading transforms the mixture into a smooth ball of dough. If the dough feels too dry, add water sparingly until it reaches the right consistency. Once prepared, cover the dough and let it rest in the refrigerator. This pause allows the gluten to relax, leading to better handling and a more desirable final product.

Preparing Flavorful Fillings for Your Empanadas

Selecting between the mushroom and kale or sweet potato and lentil filling depends on your mood and palate preference. Each filling uses a variety of ingredients to create layers of flavor. The cooking process involves sautéing vegetables and spices to enhance their natural tastes, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

For the mushroom and kale filling, start by heating grapeseed oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté sliced mushrooms until they turn golden brown, then mix in minced garlic and kale leaves. Season with lime juice, salt, and pepper to bring out the umami flavors. On the other hand, prepare the sweet potato and lentil filling by first caramelizing onions, followed by adding shredded sweet potatoes, cooked lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, and seasoning. Cook this mixture until the sweet potatoes soften completely. Both fillings offer unique taste profiles, turning every empanada into a delicious masterpiece ready for assembly and baking. Properly sealing each empanada ensures the fillings stay intact during baking, resulting in perfectly golden pastries bursting with flavor.