Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe: A Flavorful Mexican Street Food Delight

Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe: If you’re a fan of Mexican street food, then you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and authentic recipe for Bahama Breeze Empanadas.

These tasty hand-held pockets filled with savory meat and vegetables are a staple in Mexican cuisine and will satisfy any cravings for bold and flavorful dishes.

With a crispy golden crust and a burst of delicious fillings, these empanadas are perfect for any occasion – a quick snack or a party appetizer.

Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe: A Quick Overview

Recipe Description: The Bahama Breeze Empanada recipe features a mouth-watering mix of seasoned ground meat (typically beef or chicken), onions, bell peppers, and a blend of spices, all encased in a flaky buttery pastry. The empanadas are then fried or baked to golden perfection, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior with a hearty and flavorful interior.

Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes (for frying) or 25-30 minutes (for baking)

Total Time: 50-60 minutes

Type of Dish: Appetizer/Snack

Cuisine of the Recipe: This empanada recipe, while inspired by traditional Mexican street food, is a popular offering at Bahama Breeze, an American restaurant chain known for its Caribbean-inspired menu.

Quantity Produced: The recipe yields about 12 medium-sized empanadas, perfect for serving 4-6 people as an appetizer or snack.

Number of Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per empanada, depending on the filling and whether they are fried or baked. 

About Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe

The Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe is more than just a delightful meal; it’s a journey to the heart of Caribbean-inspired cuisine, masterfully blending traditional Mexican elements.

Originating from Bahama Breeze, an American restaurant chain celebrated for island-inspired dishes, this recipe brings a unique twist to the classic empanada.

What sets it apart is the meticulous balance of flavors and ingredients that pay homage to both the zest of the Caribbean and the robust, earthy tones of Mexican street food.

The restaurant’s innovative approach to this recipe includes a special mix of spices that captures the essence of tropical paradises while staying true to the empanada’s roots.

This fusion of cultures creates an unforgettable culinary experience, making the Bahama Breeze Empanada stand out among traditional recipes.

The dedication to authenticity and flavor diversity is evident in every bite, promising an empanada that is delicious and evocative of warm Caribbean beaches and lively Mexican fiestas.

Why Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe Stand Out?

• Unique Flavor Fusion: Unlike traditional empanadas, the Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe incorporates a special blend of Caribbean spices into the filling, offering a unique taste that stands out from other recipes.
• Versatile Preparation Methods: This recipe allows you to bake or fry empanadas, catering to different dietary preferences and making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Cultural Culinary Journey: By blending the robust flavors of Mexican street food with the zest of Caribbean cuisine, these empanadas transport eaters on a culinary journey, celebrating a fusion of cultures in each bite.
• Customizable Fillings: While the recipe provides a guideline for meat and vegetables, it encourages creativity, allowing for a wide range of fillings to suit various tastes and dietary requirements.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a satisfying snack, the versatility and appeal of the Bahama Breeze Empanadas make them suitable for any event, big or small.
• Healthier Options Available: With suggestions for baking instead of frying and using lean meat or vegetarian fillings, this recipe can be adapted to be healthier while retaining its mouth-watering flavors.

What are the ingredients in the Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe?

• 1 lb ground meat (beef or chicken)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
• 1 package of pre-made empanada dough rounds or homemade dough
• Oil for frying (if frying empanadas)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash if baking empanadas) 

Must-Have Equipment for Making Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe

Here’s a list of must-have equipment:

• Large Skillet: Essential for sautéing the filling’s onions, peppers, garlic, and meat. A non-stick skillet can help prevent the ingredients from sticking and burning.
• Mixing Bowls: These are needed to combine the filling ingredients and mix the dough if making it from scratch.
• Rolling Pin: If you’re opting for homemade dough, a rolling pin is crucial to roll out the dough to the perfect thickness for your empanadas.
• Baking Sheets or Frying Pan: Whether you bake or fry your empanadas, you’ll need baking sheets lined with parchment paper or a deep frying pan suitable for frying.
• Pastry Brush: Handy for applying egg wash to the empanadas if baking, giving them a beautiful golden finish.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Chop the filling ingredients into fine pieces, ensuring they cook evenly and fit well within the pastry.
• Fork or Empanada Press: A fork can be used to crimp the edges of the empanadas to seal them, or for a more uniform look, an empanada press can be very useful.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of ingredients are key to the perfect flavor balance in the filling and dough. 

Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe: step by step guide

Prepare the Filling

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft.
• Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
• Incorporate the ground meat (beef or chicken), breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
• Season the meat mixture with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix the tomato sauce and broth and simmer until the liquid reduces slightly.
• Fold in the peas and optional raisins. Remove from heat and let cool. Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs if using. 

Prepare the Dough

• Roll out the empanada dough rounds or homemade dough to about 6 inches in diameter on a lightly floured surface. 

Assemble the Empanadas

• Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough round.
• Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork or use an empanada press. 

Cook the Empanadas

• For Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
• For Frying: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry empanadas in batches until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels. 

Serve and Enjoy

• Serve hot, with dipping sauce or salsa on the side.

Perfect Pairings for Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe

• Fresh Guacamole: The creamy texture and refreshing taste of guacamole made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and cilantro pairs beautifully with the crispy exterior of the empanadas.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: A side of cilantro lime rice offers a light and zesty contrast to the savory fillings, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
• Black Bean Salad: A tangy and nutritious black bean salad seasoned with a hint of lime and cumin adds a colorful and healthy component to your empanada feast.
• Mango Salsa: For a sweet and spicy kick, mango salsa with its juicy mango pieces, red onions, jalapeños, and cilantro complements the meaty filling of the empanadas wonderfully.
• Creamy Chipotle Sauce: A smoky and slightly spicy chipotle sauce drizzled over the empanadas or used as a dipping sauce can elevate the dish’s rich, creamy texture.
• Chilled Sangria: To wash down the flavors, a glass of chilled sangria, with its fruity and refreshing taste, makes a perfect pairing, enhancing your meal’s festive and tropical vibes. 

Mastering Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe: Insider Tips and Tricks

• Choose the Right Dough: For a truly flaky and tender crust, consider using high-quality, store-bought empanada dough if you’re short on time. However, homemade dough can elevate the flavor and texture.
• Season to Perfection: Don’t skimp on the spices. Adjust the levels of cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to suit your preferences. Remember, the filling should be robust and flavorful.
• Filling Consistency is Key: Ensure the filling is not too wet before assembling the empanadas. A drier filling prevents the dough from becoming soggy and helps achieve a crispy finish.
• Seal Them Tight: To avoid the filling leaking out during cooking, press the edges of the empanadas firmly together. Crimping with a fork or using an empanada press can ensure they stay sealed.
• Do Not Overfill: While stuffing the empanadas with as much filling as possible is tempting, overfilling can lead to breakage or leaks during cooking. Aim for a balanced ratio of dough to filling.
• Baking vs. Frying: For a healthier option, baking is preferable. If frying, ensure the oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F) to prevent the empanadas from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the empanadas to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps to set the filling and enhances the flavors, making each bite more enjoyable.

What nutritional benefits does the Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe Offer?

• Protein-Rich Filling: The ground meat (beef or chicken) used in the filling provides a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Vegetable Nutrients: Onions and bell peppers, key filling components, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Onions are rich in vitamin C and chromium, while bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C.
• Healthy Fats: When opting for olive oil in cooking, you’re incorporating healthy monounsaturated fats into the recipe. These fats benefit heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
• Fiber Boost: Adding optional ingredients like peas or whole wheat empanada dough can increase the fiber content of the empanadas, promoting good digestive health and helping to keep you full longer.
• Customizable for Dietary Needs: The recipe allows for adjustments such as lean meat or vegetarian fillings and baking instead of frying, which can reduce calorie intake and accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions.

How can you preserve leftovers of the Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe?

• Cool Down First: Allow any leftover empanadas to cool to room temperature before storing. Storing them while hot can cause condensation, leading to a soggy crust.
• Refrigerate for Short-Term Storage:
  • Place the cooled empanadas in an airtight container.
  • Layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze for Long-Term Storage:
  • For freezing, wrap each empanada in plastic wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place the wrapped empanadas in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container.
  • Frozen empanadas can last for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to eat, reheat refrigerated empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated.
  • Frozen empanadas do not need to be thawed before reheating. Place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

Conclusion

Embracing the vibrant fusion of Caribbean zest and traditional Mexican flavors, the Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe offers a culinary adventure that is both delightful and accessible.

Home cooks can explore the art of making empanadas through this recipe, experimenting with flavors and techniques that celebrate a rich cultural heritage.

The recipe’s versatility, from the filling to the cooking method, ensures that it can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or occasion, making it a valuable addition to your cooking repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, and let the Bahama Breeze Empanada Recipe guide you on a culinary journey that will impress your taste buds and guests alike.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for the Bahama Breeze Empanadas?

Yes, store-bought empanada dough is perfectly acceptable and can save time. For those who prefer homemade, the recipe can be adjusted accordingly.

Are Bahama Breeze Empanadas gluten-free?

The traditional recipe, as it involves wheat-based dough, is not gluten-free. However, gluten-free dough options can be used to accommodate dietary needs.

Can I make these empanadas vegetarian?

Absolutely! The filling can be easily adapted to include vegetarian or even vegan alternatives. Beans, corn, and other vegetables can replace the meat.

How do I prevent the empanadas from opening while cooking?

Ensuring the edges are firmly sealed by crimping with a fork or using an empanada press is crucial. Do not overfill to avoid breaking the seal during cooking.

Is it better to bake or fry the empanadas?

Both methods are great, depending on your preference. Baking offers a healthier option, while frying gives a crisper exterior. The cooking method does not significantly affect the flavor.