Empanadas are delicious and versatile, but did you know what their origin is? This popular dish has a fascinating history that goes back centuries. Knowing the origin of the empanada allows us to appreciate its diversity and understand how it has evolved over time. For this reason, here in Supercurioso, the history of the empanada; we will explore the roots of this tasty morsel, discovering its connections with different cultures around the world. From Latin America to Europe and Asia, empanadas have made their mark on global gastronomy. Get ready for a culinary journey that will transport you through time and flavor.
The roots of the empanada in antiquity
The history of the empanada goes back to antiquity, where the first indications of this delicious dish can be found. In different cultures around the world, they have been discovered early versions of the empanada dating back thousands of years.
In the Middle East, for example, records of the existence of stuffed breads have been found since ancient times. The ancient Egyptians already prepared a kind of flat bread called oblation bread which they used to fill with meats, herbs and other ingredients. This type of preparation is considered a direct precursor to the empanada.
Likewise, in the Roman Empire, there were “libum”, a kind of cheese pancakes that were baked in the oven and filled with different ingredients. These preparations, similar to current empanadas, they were popular at Roman banquets and festivities.
Even in Asia, a history of dumplings can be found in the form of “jiaozi”, small Chinese dumplings filled with meat and vegetables that were steamed or deep-fried. These dumplings, which have existed for more than 1,800 years, are an integral part of Chinese cuisine to this day.
Origin of the empanada in Latin America: tradition and diversity
Latin America is known for its love and devotion towards empanadas. This delicious morsel has become deeply embedded in the culinary culture of the region, becoming an emblematic and highly valued dish in every Latin American country.
The popularity of Latin American empanadas has transcended the borders of the region, reaching palates all over the world. Restaurants and food trucks specializing in empanadas have opened in different countries, offering a sample of the rich Latin American culinary tradition.
1.Colombia
In colombia, empanadas have spanish and african influence and they are mentioned for the first time in the chronicles of friars and missionaries who arrived at the time of the Conquest. Currently, empanadas are made from corn dough or wheat flour and filled with ingredients such as potatoes, meat, chicken, rice, eggs, vegetables and cheese with a sandwich.
2.Uruguay
In Uruguay, although it is not known exactly how the empanadas arrived, they may be linked to Spain and have a long tradition in Arab world. The empanada in Uruguay does not grow as a street food option, but as a passing food. Meat and ham and cheese are the fillings that dominate.
3. Argentina
On the other hand, in Argentina, empanadas have a strong presence in food culture and date back to colonial times. They are made of flour dough, salt, water and melted fat and are filled with meat cut with a knife or minced, green onion. Depending on the region, they include potatoes, raisins, eggs, and/or olives.
4. Mexico
In Mexico, pastels are similar to empanadas, but have a different filling and origin. They are made of corn dough or wheat flour and filled with meat, chicken, potato, beans, cheese and other ingredients. The cakes are cooked in a wood oven and served hot.
5. Venezuela
In Venezuela, empanadas are made from corn or wheat flour dough, water, salt and a sweet touch in the Andean region. The fillings include cheese, ground or shredded meat, dogfish, shrimp, offal, chicharrón, vegetables and black beans.
In some areas of the Venezuelan plains they are made from capybara meat, also known as capybara or capybara. There are also sweet banana and guava fillings.
The origin of the empanada in Europe: a gastronomic legacy
In the history of the empanada, it is a food that has left a significant mark on European gastronomy over the centuries. Its presence can be traced in different countries and cultures of the continent, where it has evolved and adapted over time.
In Spain, the empanada is an integral part of the traditional cuisine. Known as “Galician empanada”, it originated in the region of Galicia, in the northwest of the country. The Galician empanada is characterized by its thin and crunchy bread dough, filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, fish, shellfish or vegetables.
On the other hand, in Italy, there is a variant of the empanada known as “calzone”. The calzone is a kind of crescent-shaped empanada, which is baked and filled with ingredients such as cheese, sausages and vegetables. It is a popular dish in many Italian regions, especially in the south of the country.
In Eastern Europe, the empanada has also made its mark. In countries like Poland and Russia, “pirozhki” are found, small stuffed pies that can be baked or fried. These delicacies are an important part of the region’s culinary tradition, and are filled with a wide variety of ingredients, from meat and cabbage to fruit and cheese.
The origin of the empanada in Europe is a testimony of how a culinary concept can travel and transform across borders. Its popularity and adaptability have allowed this dish to become a permanent fixture on many Europeans’ tables, enriching the continent’s diversity and gastronomic heritage.
History of the empanada: a journey through time and flavor
The empanada is much more than a simple dish. It is a journey that transports us through time, revealing the roots and evolution of one of the most appreciated snacks in different cultures around the world.
The origin of the empanada is uncertain and has been the subject of debate for a long time. However, the empanada is believed to have a strong European influence, especially from Spain, and has also been influenced by African cuisine and Arab. The empanada has become a popular dish throughout Latin America, with each country having its own version and regional variations.
Although its exact origin is not known with certainty, it is thought that the empanada is a creation that has developed over time and has been influenced by various cultures. It is much more than a simple dish, it is a symbol of cultural diversity and a gastronomic legacy that has transcended borders. Do you agree with this? Let us know in the comments!
Beyond the history of the empanada
In addition to knowing the curious history of the empanada, there are a lot of dishes that have a lot to reveal about their origin. You can take advantage of knowing: