National Dish Paraguay: Surubí Empanadas (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Surubí Empanadas, a true jewel of Paraguayan cooking that brings together flavour, texture and tradition in a single golden parcel. These crisp little pastries are filled with surubí, a freshwater fish native to Paraguay’s rivers, spiced simply with onion, garlic and paprika. Long tied to family gatherings and festive occasions, they offer a delicious way to taste the flavours of Paraguay right at your own table.
About Surubí Empanadas
Surubí Empanadas are a genuine gem of Paraguayan cuisine, offering a wonderful combination of taste, texture and tradition. These delicious pastry parcels are filled with fresh surubí, a fish that thrives in the rivers and waters of Paraguay. Their preparation has a long history and is often linked to family celebrations and festive occasions. If you want to experience the flavours of Paraguay on your plate, surubí empanadas are the perfect choice.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g surubí (fresh or frozen)
- 150 g plain flour
- 1 small egg
- 50 ml water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
To make the best surubí empanadas, use fresh ingredients to bring out the fullest flavour. Visit a local fishmonger or look for surubí at a well-stocked supermarket. Make sure the fish looks fresh and smells pleasant. The other ingredients, such as flour, onions and spices, are usually available in any general grocery shop.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin making the surubí empanadas, gather and prepare all your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and garlic, and make sure the fish is well cleaned and cut into small pieces. This not only makes the cooking process easier but also ensures the filling cooks through evenly. Once everything is ready, you can move on to the next step — preparing the dough.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a little oil in a frying pan and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the surubí pieces and fry for about 5 minutes, until the fish is cooked through.
- Season the mixture with paprika, salt and pepper, then leave it to cool.
- For the dough, tip the flour into a bowl, add the egg and water, and knead until you have a smooth dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut it into small circles. Place a tablespoon of the fish filling in the centre of each disc.
- Fold the edges of the pastry together and press firmly to seal.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the empanadas until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on kitchen paper and serve hot.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of these surubí empanadas, simply swap the wheat flour for a gluten-free flour. Popular alternatives include rice flour or a dedicated gluten-free flour blend. The remaining ingredients are naturally lactose-free, but do make sure the fish you use is fresh and free from additives. Because the empanadas are filled and fried, the flavour stays intact and the texture remains beautifully crisp.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can adapt these surubí empanadas wonderfully by replacing the fish with fried mushrooms, tofu or vegetables. A filling of spinach and feta would also be delicious. Add extra herbs and spices to deepen the flavour. These tweaks not only create a new take on the recipe but also broaden the culinary appeal of this popular dish.
More tips and tricks
To create the perfect surubí empanadas, take care not to roll the dough too thickly, as this can overpower the filling. A thin dough helps the empanadas brown evenly as they fry. It also helps to brush the edges of the pastry lightly with water before folding, so they seal more securely. Experiment with different fillings too, until you find your personal favourite — much like the endless variations of Empanadas Paraguayas.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Surubí empanadas are easy to adjust to personal preference. If fish is not to your liking, you can swap it for minced meat or vegetables. You can also let your creativity run free with the spices: chillies, fresh herbs or other local seasonings can be added to give the dish an individual touch. Your guests will appreciate the variety, whether you serve these alongside hearty Empanadas de Carne y Verduras or lighter cassava-based bites.
Ingredient substitutions
If the ingredients for these surubí empanadas are not available, there are plenty of alternatives. Instead of surubí you can use any other firm-fleshed fish, such as cod or trout — the same approach that works for Albóndigas de Surubí. If you prefer a vegetarian option, chickpeas or red lentils make excellent fillings. This keeps the dish accessible to everyone and lets you adapt the flavours to local produce and preferences.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs wonderfully with surubí empanadas to round off the flavour. A freshly made lime juice or a fruity lemonade is a refreshing choice that highlights the savoury taste of the empanadas. For wine lovers, a crisp white wine or a lively sparkling wine is ideal. A glass of ice-cold Tereré, Paraguay’s beloved chilled herbal drink, is a wonderfully authentic pairing too.
Serving and presentation ideas
An attractive presentation makes surubí empanadas even more appealing. Serve the empanadas on a large, flat platter and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices. Small bowls of dipping sauces such as salsa or guacamole add extra accents. The colourful arrangement not only makes the dish look delicious but also builds anticipation before the meal.
A bit of history
Surubí empanadas have a long tradition in Paraguay, reaching back to the time of the indigenous peoples. Empanadas were a popular dish because they were easy to carry and eat — ideal for a mobile way of life. Over the centuries they have grown into a national favourite, served in many eateries and at special occasions. Their preparation is often bound up with cultural festivals and plays an important role in bringing communities together — a hallmark of Paraguay cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Surubí Empanadas
Surubí empanadas are more than just a dish — they are a piece of Paraguayan culture that delights every palate. With their combination of tender pastry and a delicious fish filling, they offer a harmonious taste experience. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or as a main course, these empanadas are an excellent choice. Let the variety of Paraguayan cuisine inspire you, and prepare your own batch of surubí empanadas.
