World Flavors Cookbook

Empanadas de Pipian

Deep-fried cornmeal pockets filled with a savory mixture of beef and mashed potatoes, served with spicy ají sauce.

Cuisine: Colombia

Ingredients

• 2 cups precooked cornmeal (masarepa)
• 1 cup mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup cooked ground beef
• 1 tbsp achiote for the dough
• Oil for frying
• Ají sauce: onions, cilantro, tomato, lime, and lots of chili

Instructions

1. Make the dough by mixing cornmeal with warm water and achiote until smooth and pliable.
2. Mix mashed potatoes and beef for the filling.
3. Flatten a ball of dough, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and fold over. Seal the edges using a fork or a small bowl.
4. Deep fry in hot oil until very crispy and golden.
5. Serve hot with spicy ají sauce.