Venezuelan Style Cheese Hand Pies with Pink Sauce | Empanaditas de Queso con Salsa Rosada

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil adds a unique flavor while being dairy-free.

cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Low-fat cheese reduces calories without sacrificing taste.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Greek yogurt maintains creaminess with fewer calories.

lime juice

🥗Healthier: lemon juice

💰Cheaper: vinegar

Lemon juice provides a similar tangy flavor.

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

Add water gradually until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5 minutes.

Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick.

Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass.

Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a pan until soft, about 5 minutes.

Mix sautéed vegetables with cheese and spices in a bowl.

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.

Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.

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

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

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Combine tomato sauce, mayonnaise, ketchup, and lime juice to make salsa rosada.

Serve empanaditas warm with salsa rosada on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens