Vegetarian Empanada Filling Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

Empanadas are a beloved pastry enjoyed worldwide, and their versatility makes them perfect for any dietary preference. Today, we’re diving into a delicious vegetarian empanada filling recipe that’s bursting with fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and vibrant spices.

This filling is not only packed with flavor but also offers a nutritious punch that will satisfy vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Whether you’re preparing a snack for a party, a quick lunch, or a cozy dinner, these vegetarian empanadas will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

What sets this filling apart is the balance between savory and aromatic ingredients, combined with a satisfying texture that makes every bite memorable. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and customize according to your pantry staples or seasonal veggies.

So grab your apron and get ready to make some mouthwatering empanadas that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian empanada filling brings together wholesome ingredients and spices to create a rich, flavorful experience without any meat. It’s:

• Healthy and nutritious, loaded with fiber from beans and vitamins from fresh vegetables.
• Easy to make with simple kitchen staples and quick cooking time.
• Highly adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs — you can swap veggies or add extra heat.
• Perfect for meal prep as the filling stores well and can be used for snacks or meals throughout the week.
• A great introduction to vegetarian cooking if you’re looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing flavor.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of doughs, whether you prefer a traditional empanada crust or a gluten-free alternative. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup cooked black beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a mild kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for vegetarian but not vegan)

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Grater (for carrot and cheese)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Empanada dough discs or homemade dough
• Fork or empanada press (for sealing)
• Baking sheet or frying pan (for cooking empanadas)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the red bell pepper, grate the carrot, and chop the mushrooms. Drain and rinse the black beans if using canned.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the bell pepper, carrot, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their juices.
5. Add the black beans and corn kernels to the skillet. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
6. Season the filling with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
7. Cook the mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to thicken slightly.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice for brightness.
9. If using cheese, mix in shredded cheese at this point for a melty, savory addition.
10. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the empanadas. This helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
11. Fill each empanada dough disc with about 2 tablespoons of the filling. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork or empanada press.
12. Cook the empanadas by either baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, or frying in hot oil until crisp and golden.
13. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving—they’re best enjoyed warm!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables with a splash of soy sauce or add a pinch of smoked chipotle powder to the filling.

Try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier filling.

If you want a vegan version, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Leftover filling can be used as a topping for rice bowls or stuffed into bell peppers for a quick meal.

Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley to give your empanadas a unique regional twist. You can also incorporate other beans such as kidney or pinto beans for variety.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian empanadas with a variety of tasty sides and dips to elevate your meal. Some great accompaniments include:

• Fresh salsa verde or tomato salsa for a tangy, spicy dip.
• Guacamole to add creamy richness.
• A crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for balance.
• Rice and beans for a traditional Latin American touch.

For a lighter option, pair your empanadas with steamed or roasted vegetables. If you love experimenting with flavors, check out the Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for more exciting ideas.

Conclusion

Crafting the perfect vegetarian empanada filling is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a wholesome, plant-based twist. This recipe combines fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and aromatic spices to create a filling that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Whether you bake or fry your empanadas, the result is a golden, crispy pocket bursting with deliciousness.

What’s even better is how simple the filling is to prepare and how easily it can be customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore other vegetarian delights like our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try a sweet treat with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

For those who love fresh homemade bread alongside empanadas, the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves is a perfect match.

Ready to fill your kitchen with the aroma of warm, savory empanadas? Let’s get cooking and enjoy this delicious vegetarian treat that’s sure to impress family and friends!

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