Argentina is a foodie's paradise, offering many signature dishes and
desserts with cultural significance. But one food stands above all others:
the empanada.
This portable, delicious food consists of a filling wrapped in dough,
which makes it a great meal or snack on the go. Empanadas are so versatile
that they can be eaten as an appetizer, main dish, after-school snack,
potluck dish or even dessert! The history of this food is fascinating,
whether you're already an empanada lover or have never heard of them
before. The most likely explanation for the origin of Argentinian
empanadas is colonization by the Spanish. Spain has its own tradition of
empanadas, going as far back as the 16th century. A cookbook from 1520 is
believed to be the firs official mention of the empanada. When immigrants
from Spain came to Argentina, they brought their cuisine with them.
Although this influx of Spaniards may have introduced the empanada to
Argentina, over the years, the Argentinian people have made their own
variations.*
Each one has, depending on the flavor, a different shape that makes them
recognizable. That way you can know which one is which.
Let's take a look at some of them: