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Empanada Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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empanada

[ˌɛmpəˈnɑːdə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

Spanish cuisine

A type of stuffed pastry or bread that is baked or fried, popular in Spanish-speaking countries.

Synonyms

pastry turnover, stuffed bread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
empanada

Similar to 'empanada,' this word still refers to the same type of food and is used in similar contexts, often emphasizing its cultural background.

  • Her homemade empanadas are even better than the ones from the market.
  • During our trip to Argentina, we tasted empanadas stuffed with a delicious blend of meats and spices.
pastry turnover

This term is more generic and can be used to describe various types of pastries that are folded over with a filling inside. It does not carry the specific cultural connotation of 'empanada.'

  • I had an apple pastry turnover for breakfast today.
  • We make pastry turnovers filled with cheese and herbs for lunch.
stuffed bread

This term is broader and can describe any kind of bread that has been filled with other ingredients. It is less specific than 'empanada' or 'pastry turnover' and can refer to a wide range of baked goods.

  • Stuffed bread with spinach and feta is a great appetizer.
  • We prepared stuffed bread rolls for the party.

Examples of usage

  • The empanadas were filled with meat and vegetables.
  • She ordered a dozen empanadas for the party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Variations

  • Latin American countries have their own unique styles, such as Argentine empanadas, which can be baked or fried and come in numerous flavors.
  • In Spain, empanadas can be made with a thicker crust and often filled with tuna, vegetables, or different meats.
  • In the Philippines, they are known as 'empanada' as well and can be filled with a mix of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, showcasing regional adapted recipes.

Cultural Significance

  • Empanadas are commonly served at celebrations and festivals across Latin America, symbolizing food that brings people together.
  • In Argentina, empanadas are considered a national dish, and regions are proud of their distinctive fillings and cooking styles.
  • They often represent comfort food, with each family having its unique recipe passed down through generations.

Health Insights

  • Empanadas can vary greatly in nutritional content, with baked versions typically being lighter than fried ones.
  • Using whole grain or vegetable-based crusts can make these tasty treats healthier.
  • Lunch or snack options, they provide a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and, when made wisely, can include plenty of vegetables.

Art and Media

  • Empanadas have been featured in various food documentaries, celebrating street food and traditional cooking around the world.
  • They appear in popular culture, sometimes as part of food challenges or competitions showcasing culinary creativity.
  • Cookbooks around the globe often include chapters on empanadas, emphasizing their versatility and popularity in home cooking.

Origin of 'empanada'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Spanish verb 'empanar', meaning 'to wrap in bread' or 'to coat with bread'.
  • In medieval times, the concept of wrapping food in dough was popular in Spain, leading to the modern version we know today.
  • Similar dishes can be found in various cultures, often under different names but sharing a common idea of filling and folding.

The empanada has its origins in Galicia, Spain, where it was originally a portable and convenient meal for farmers and laborers. Over time, empanadas spread to Latin America and became a popular street food in many countries. The word 'empanada' comes from the Spanish verb 'empanar', which means 'to wrap or coat in bread'.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,211, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.