Empadas, the beloved savory pastries that have captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide, come in many shapes and sizes. While the traditional empada is a small, hand-held snack, there’s something undeniably special about the large empada – a dish that invites both family and friends to gather around the table savoring its delicious, flaky crust and rich fillings. Whether you are new to empadas or a seasoned fan, the large version of this treat offers a fresh take on a time-honored tradition.

What Is an Empada?

Empadas are a staple of Portuguese and Brazilian cuisines with their roots stretching back centuries. These savory pies typically feature a buttery, crisp pastry crust filled with an assortment of ingredients such as meats, cheeses, vegetables, and seafood. Often compared to savory pies or pastries, empadas are the perfect balance of crunchy exterior and tender filling.

In Brazil, empadas can be found at virtually every corner bakery or street stall, served as a quick snack, appetizer, or even a hearty meal. They come in various forms—individual-sized, family-sized, and, of course, the large empada, which has grown in popularity for its ability to feed a group and serve as a shared meal.

The Appeal of Large Empadas

Large empadas are ideal for gatherings, whether you are hosting a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or a holiday feast. Unlike their smaller counterparts, which are often eaten as quick bites, large empadas can take center stage at the table. Their size makes them visually impressive, and their flavors, often rich and robust, will satisfy any crowd.

The beauty of large empadas lies in their versatility. Just as with individual empadas, you can fill them with an endless variety of ingredients. Traditional fillings like spiced chicken, pork, or beef, as well as more modern versions such as vegetarian or seafood fillings, all find their place in these generously-sized pastries. You could even create themed empadas to suit different occasions, making them an attractive option for celebrations and creative cooks.

Key Ingredients for a Delicious Large Empada

1. The Pastry: The foundation of any great empada is the pastry. The dough should be light, flaky, and buttery. The trick to achieving this texture lies in the method of preparation—using cold butter, working the dough gently, and giving it time to rest. A perfect empada pastry should melt in your mouth but hold its shape well enough to support the filling.
2. The Filling: The filling is where you can really get creative. A classic large empada in Brazil might be stuffed with chicken, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and spices like cumin, garlic, and onion. For those with more adventurous tastes, fillings can range from creamy cheeses and spinach to prawns, crab, or even lamb. The key is to balance the flavors—rich enough to satisfy, yet light enough to complement the pastry.
3. Seasoning: Empadas should not be skimpy on seasoning. Whether it’s through the inclusion of fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro or spices like paprika or saffron, seasoning plays an integral role in defining the empada’s flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to use bold flavors, as the crust helps to temper their intensity.
4. Egg Wash: To give your large empada that golden, glossy finish, brush it with an egg wash before baking. This step adds visual appeal and a delightful texture to the pastry’s surface.

Making Your Own Large Empada

If you are inspired to create your own large empada, here is a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

For the pastry:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (or 2 sticks ) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup cold water
• 1 tsp salt

For the filling:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or any meat of your choice)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup olives, chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg white + 1 tbsp water ( for the egg wash)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pastry: In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and water, and pulse until the dough starts to come together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, olives, and salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs. Let the filling cool.
3. Assemble the Empada: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out two-thirds of the dough on a floured surface, large enough to line the base of a deep pie dish. Spoon the chicken mixture into the pastry-lined dish. Roll out the remaining dough to cover the top, crimp the edges, and make a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
4. Egg Wash: In a small bowl or cup, stir together the egg white and the water, mixing thoroughly. Brush the mixture over the top of the crust before baking.
5. Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the empada cool slightly before serving. Slice it into wedges and enjoy!

Why Large Empadas Are Perfect for Sharing

Large empadas are more than just food; they are about bringing people together. They represent the warmth of home-cooked meals and the joy of sharing a delicious dish with others. Whether served at a birthday party, a holiday meal, or a simple family dinner, large empadas are a fantastic choice for creating lasting memories.

So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that will feed a crowd and bring smiles to faces, consider making a large empada. With its savory filling, crispy crust, and the comforting feeling of home, it is sure to become a favorite at your table too.