Recipes for the perfect Costa Rican empanadas | HOUSTON LIFE | KPRC 2

cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: queso fresco

Low-fat cheese reduces calories while maintaining flavor.

black beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are nutritious and often cheaper.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil offers a unique flavor and is dairy-free.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt is lower in fat and high in protein.

Mix flour, salt, and butter in a bowl until crumbly.

Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms.

Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add black beans, cumin, oregano, and lime juice; cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in cheese and cilantro.

Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into a circle.

Place a spoonful of the filling on one half of each circle.

Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Fry the empanadas in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens