Pineapple Teriyaki Empanadas Recipe: Sweet Meets Savory Delight

Try these Pineapple Teriyaki Empanadas for a perfect fusion of sweet pineapple and savory teriyaki in every bite! 

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

1/2 cup teriyaki sauce

1/2 cup cooked chicken, finely shredded

1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Empanada Dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 large egg

1/4 cup cold water (add more if needed)

For Assembly:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced red bell pepper and cook until softened.

Add pineapple chunks and teriyaki sauce, cooking until the mixture starts to thicken.

Stir in shredded chicken and cook until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, and stir into the mixture to thicken. Let cool.

Make the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Beat the egg and add it to the flour mixture along with cold water. Mix until a dough forms.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Empanadas:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles.

Spoon a tablespoon of the filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Crimp with a fork if desired.

Brush each empanada with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.

Bake:

Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve warm and enjoy the sweet and savory explosion of flavors!

Pro Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of extra teriyaki sauce for dipping!