National Dish Bolivia: Empanadas Salteñas (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Empanadas Salteñas, one of Bolivia’s most beloved savoury treats! These handheld pastries wrap a crisp, golden crust around a fragrant filling of meat, potatoes, peas and warm spices. Equally at home on a street corner or at the centre of a family celebration, they bring people together over every bite. Bring a taste of the Bolivian Andes straight to your own kitchen.
About Empanadas Salteñas
Empanadas Salteñas are a traditional Bolivian speciality that is hugely popular with locals and visitors alike. These savoury pastries are usually filled with a delicious mixture of meat, potatoes, peas and an array of spices. The crisp crust and aromatic centre make every empanada an unforgettable experience. They often feature at Bolivian celebrations, bringing families together around the table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g plain wheat flour
- 100 ml water
- 1 egg
- 200 g minced beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small potato, diced
- 50 g peas
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Spices: salt, pepper, cumin and paprika, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for Empanadas Salteñas are easy to find in most supermarkets or at your local market. Choosing fresh, good-quality ingredients is key to the flavour of the dish. Pay particular attention to the meat, as fresh beef or chicken gives a juicy result. Alongside the main ingredients, it is worth considering local spices to boost the authenticity of your empanadas.
Preparing the dish
For the best results, start by preparing all of your ingredients. That means washing, peeling and dicing the vegetables into small, even cubes. The dough should also be made ahead of time by combining the flour with water and the egg. A proper resting time for the dough gives it a better consistency, which makes it far easier to shape when you roll it out.
Step-by-step instructions
- Put the flour, water and egg in a bowl and knead into a smooth dough.
- Wrap the dough in cling film and leave to rest for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, brown the meat in a pan with the oil, then add the onion, potato and peas.
- Season with the spices and mix everything together well.
- Roll the dough out thinly and cut out circles using a glass.
- Top each circle with the filling and seal the edges firmly.
- Place the empanadas on a baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 20 minutes, until golden brown.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of Empanadas Salteñas, simply use gluten-free flour in place of the wheat flour. Make sure all of your other ingredients are gluten-free too. You can also use coconut or almond milk as a lactose-free alternative in the dough. Bear in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but you can work with gluten-free binders to achieve the consistency you are after.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of Empanadas Salteñas, you can replace the meat with soya or tofu fillings. A mixture of different vegetables, such as courgette, peppers and mushrooms, also makes a delicious filling. You can swap the egg in the dough for a plant-based egg, for example one made with chia or flax seeds. Exotic spices such as turmeric or curry can give the dish an extra lift.
More tips and tricks
To make the empanadas especially crisp, brush them with a little milk or oil before baking. A simple, versatile filling can also be improved with the addition of cheese or fresh herbs, such as coriander. If you are cooking for a bigger group, double the filling and bake the empanadas in one large tray. Try out different spice combinations to create interesting new flavours — a fresh salsa like Llajwa makes a lovely accompaniment.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of empanadas is just how adaptable they are. You can try all sorts of fillings, depending on what you fancy or what you happen to have to hand. If you like a spicier version, simply add chilli or extra pepper. Sweet fillings are possible too, such as apple or quince for a dessert variation. Experiment with textures by adding nuts or seeds for a little extra crunch.
Ingredient substitutions
Several ingredients can easily be swapped without affecting the quality of the dish. Instead of minced beef, you could use pork or poultry. For a vegan option, beans or lentils make a healthy alternative. When it comes to the spices, feel free to try other herbs such as parsley or basil if you prefer. Be creative and adapt the recipe to suit your own taste.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pair beautifully with Empanadas Salteñas. A refreshing glass of freshly squeezed lime juice or a cold beer are both popular partners. Traditional Bolivian drinks, such as chicha, round the meal off nicely too. Light wines, for example a dry rosé, are also an excellent choice. Experiment with different combinations to create your perfect moment of indulgence.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can lift the whole empanada experience considerably. Serve the empanadas on a handsome wooden board or in an attractive bowl. Garnish the plate with fresh herbs or sauces to add colour and freshness. You could also offer small dishes of various dips or salsas to give your guests a choice. An appealing presentation builds the anticipation for this delicious dish.
A bit of history
Empanadas have a long history that stretches back to antiquity. They originally came from the Mediterranean and spread across Europe and Latin America. In Bolivia, Empanadas Salteñas are a special variation distinguished by the use of local ingredients. The traditional method and the particular spices make them unique and treasured within Bolivian cuisine. They are not only a dish but also a symbol of hospitality and tradition.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Empanadas Salteñas
Empanadas Salteñas are an indispensable part of Bolivian cuisine, winning people over both in flavour and in culture. Their variety of fillings and crisp pastry shell offer something for everyone. Whether for a festive family gathering or as a quick snack, these pastries are always a good choice. Let the flavours and traditions of Bolivia work their magic and make your own Empanadas Salteñas at home!
