Aromanian Spinach and Cheese Empanadas

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Argentinian empanadas to Aromanian cuisine, we incorporate traditional Aromanian ingredients and flavors. Instead of using ground beef or chicken, we opt for a vegetarian filling with sautéed spinach. The cheese filling is a combination of feta cheese and cottage cheese, which adds a creamy and tangy element to the empanadas. The pastry is also adapted to Aromanian cuisine, using a flaky dough that is similar to the traditional Aromanian pie crust. We alse have the original recipe for Empanadas, so you can check it out.

• For the pastry: For the pastry:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces (300g) fresh spinach, chopped 10 ounces (300g) fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup (150g) crumbled feta cheese 1 cup (150g) crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup (200g) cottage cheese 1 cup (200g) cottage cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For brushing: For brushing:
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g / 7g (total / saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 30g / 2g (total / sugars)
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the pastry. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. 5.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and cottage cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of about 4 inches in diameter.
8. 8.
   Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the empanadas.
9. 9.
   Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to thoroughly wash the spinach leaves before chopping them. Remove any tough stems and discard them.
• Feta cheese — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the feta cheese in cold water for 30 minutes before crumbling it.
• Cottage cheese — If you can't find cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the pastry dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed spinach.
• Serve the empanadas with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or a fresh tomato salsa for added flavor.
• These empanadas can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a great option for picnics or parties.
• If you have any leftover empanadas, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Aromanian Spinach and Cheese Empanadas as an appetizer or a main course. They pair well with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown empanadas on a platter, allowing the vibrant green filling to peek through the flaky pastry. Sprinkle some powdered sugar over the empanadas for an elegant touch. Serve with a colorful garnish of fresh herbs or edible flowers to make the dish visually appealing.