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Air Fryer Breakfast Empanadas: A Delicious and Easy Morning Treat

If you’re looking for a delightful way to start your day, look no further than air fryer breakfast empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries, traditionally filled with a variety of ingredients, have been reimagined for the modern kitchen. Thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier version without compromising on flavour or texture.

What Are Empanadas?

Empanadas are a type of pastry that originated in Spain and have become a beloved dish across Latin America. Typically, they consist of a dough that is filled with a variety of ingredients – ranging from meats and cheese to fruits and vegetables. Breakfast empanadas, in particular, are a wonderful way to incorporate your favourite morning staples into a convenient, portable snack.

Why Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionised the way we cook, offering a quick and healthy alternative to traditional frying. By circulating hot air around the food, it achieves a crispy exterior while using significantly less oil. This not only cuts down on calories but also reduces the mess typically associated with frying.

Ingredients for Breakfast Empanadas

To make your own air fryer breakfast empanadas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups plain flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water

For the Filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup diced cooked sausage or bacon (or a vegetarian alternative)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your preferred variety)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional: chives, parsley)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Making the Dough

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the chilled butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

2. Form the Dough: Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Cover it in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

1. Cook the Ingredients: In a pan, scramble the eggs and add the diced sausage or bacon, bell peppers, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is well combined and the eggs are fully cooked. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then stir in the cheese and herbs.

Assembling the Empanadas

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter.

2. Fill the Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the egg mixture in the centre of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure they are sealed well.

Air Frying

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare for Cooking: Brush the empanadas with the egg wash made from beaten egg and water. This will give them a beautiful golden colour as they cook.

3. Cook the Empanadas: Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve: Allow the empanadas to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm on their own or with a side of salsa, avocado, or sour cream.

Conclusion

Air fryer breakfast empanadas are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty morning meal without the fuss. Not only are they easy to make, but they can also be customised to suit your personal tastes. Whether you prefer a meaty filling or a vegetarian option packed with veggies and cheese, these empanadas are sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. So, why not give them a whirl? Your tastebuds will thank you!