Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe

Immerse yourself in the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe, a culinary gem that promises to delight your taste buds.

Perfect for gatherings or a family snack, these empanadas are packed with savory fillings wrapped in a flaky, golden crust.

Follow this guide to recreate the irresistible charm of Bahama Breeze’s beloved empanadas in your kitchen.

Personal Experience 

I first tried these empanadas on a sunny vacation to the Bahamas, and they were a revelation.

Each bite brought a burst of flavor so memorable that I knew I had to learn to make them at home. This recipe has brought back that beachside joy with every batch I’ve made since.

Equipment List

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Pastry brush
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4-6 tablespoons ice water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten for egg wash

Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe – Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Incorporate the butter into the mixture until it takes on the appearance of coarse crumbs. Slowly incorporate ice water, mixing until the mixture coalesces into a dough. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2:

Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3:

Season: Add cumin, paprika, tomato sauce, olives, and raisins. Cook for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4:

Assemble Empanadas: Roll out the dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of filling on each circle, fold over, and press edges with a fork to seal.

Step 5:

Bake: Place empanadas on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips for Success

1. Keep the dough cold to ensure it’s easy to handle.
2. Don’t overfill the empanadas to prevent leaks.
3. Use a fork to seal the edges firmly, creating a good seal.
4. For an extra golden finish, double brush with egg wash halfway through baking.
5. Serve fresh or store in the refrigerator for reheating without losing flavor.

Variations

• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the filling for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to heat things up.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground beef with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables for a veggie version.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the beef filling for a caramelized flavor.
• Seafood Sensation: Use cooked shrimp or crab instead of beef for a seaside twist.

Conclusion 

With this Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe, you can bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table.

Whether you’re reminiscing about a tropical vacation or exploring new flavors, these empanadas offer a delicious escape.

Enjoy crafting them and watch as they disappear, one delightful bite at a time!

FAQs

Can Bahama Breeze empanadas be served as a main dish? 

Yes, Bahama Breeze empanadas can be a main dish. Pair them with a side salad, rice, or vegetables to make a complete and satisfying meal. They are quite filling and versatile, suitable for lunch or dinner.

How can I store leftover Bahama Breeze empanadas? 

Leftover Bahama Breeze empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to seal them securely or store them in a sealed container.

Warm them up again in the oven or microwave until they are heated through.

Is it possible to make Bahama Breeze empanadas gluten-free? 

Yes, to make gluten-free Bahama Breeze empanadas, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Make sure to check that the blend is suitable for making pastry dough to ensure the empanadas still have a desirable texture.

What side dishes pair well with Bahama Breeze empanadas? 

Classic side dishes that pair well with Bahama Breeze empanadas include coleslaw, black bean salad, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.

For a heartier meal, consider serving them with plantains, yucca fries, or a tropical fruit salad to keep with the Caribbean theme.

Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying? 

Absolutely! Baking Bahama Breeze empanadas is a healthier option and helps achieve a golden and flaky crust without the extra oil.

Simply brush them with an egg wash before baking to help them achieve a beautiful golden color.