About Empanadas
Empanadas are a beloved staple of Venezuelan cuisine, offering a comforting, versatile, and flavourful experience. Distinct from other empanadas worldwide, Venezuelan empanadas are made from cornmeal dough, making them gluten-free and unique in texture. Fried to golden perfection, their crescent shape and crispy exterior give way to delicious fillings like cheese, shredded beef, chicken, black beans with sweet plantain, or even fish. These tasty pastries are enjoyed as a breakfast favourite, a quick on-the-go lunch, or a satisfying snack, embodying the spirit of Venezuelan street food culture.
The history of empanadas traces back to Mesopotamia, where filled dough recipes were first recorded around 1700 BCE. These recipes spread through the Arab world, North Africa, and Spain, eventually evolving into the empanadas we recognize today. Spanish colonizers introduced empanadas to Venezuela in the 16th century, where local ingredients like corn flour transformed the dish into the iconic Venezuelan empanada. Over centuries, empanadas became integral to Venezuelan culture, with regional variations like the famous Empanadas de Cazón from Margarita Island, filled with seasoned shredded dogfish and sweet peppers.
Venezuelan empanadas are distinct from their Argentine counterparts. While Argentine empanadas are often baked with a flaky wheat dough, Venezuelan empanadas are fried and made with pre-cooked cornmeal, yielding a crunchy yet softer, slightly chewy texture. The fillings are also more varied and often paired with flavourful sauces such as the tangy, cilantro-based “guasacaca,” or the spicy “ají” adding a vibrant touch to every bite.
Street vendors, or “empanaderas,” are a cornerstone of Venezuelan empanada culture, selling freshly fried empanadas filled with local bold flavours. Whether bought from a street cart, a beachside stall, or made at home, Venezuelan empanadas capture the heart and tropical flavours of this Caribbean nation. Now, thanks to Mapanadas & Salsas, Venezuelan empanadas and their rich heritage can be enjoyed right here in the UK. We take pride in sharing this cherished tradition, bringing authentic tastes and bold sauces to your table.
