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Ilocos Empanada

A traditional Filipino snack featuring a crispy golden crust filled with savory ground pork, vegetables, and egg, perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 empanadas
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup ground pork
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots
  • 1/4 cup diced potatoes
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • Oil for frying

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Frying pan
  • Slotted spoon
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt.
  2. Gradually add 1/2 cup water and 1/4 cup vegetable oil, stirring until a dough forms, then knead for 5 minutes.
  3. Divide the dough into 8 portions and roll each on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
  4. Heat a frying pan over medium heat, add 1/2 cup ground pork and cook for 5 minutes until browned.
  5. Add 1/2 cup grated carrots and 1/4 cup diced potatoes to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
  6. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle, fold into a half-moon, and crimp edges with a fork.
  7. Beat 1 egg in a small bowl and brush over the top of each empanada for an egg wash.
  8. Pour 1 inch of oil into a frying pan and heat to 350°F over medium heat.
  9. Fry empanadas in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Use a slotted spoon to transfer empanadas to paper towels to drain excess oil and serve warm.

Notes

Let the oil reach 350°F before frying to ensure a crispy exterior. Serve warm with spicy vinegar or sweet chili sauce.