Chicken empanadas, those savory pockets of delight, are a culinary staple enjoyed across cultures. The combination of flaky pastry and flavorful chicken filling makes them a satisfying meal or snack on their own. But what takes them to the next level? What side dishes, sauces, and drinks perfectly complement these little pockets of goodness? Let’s embark on a culinary adventure to discover the perfect pairings for your chicken empanadas.
The Perfect Sauces: Elevating the Empanada Experience
A well-chosen sauce can transform a simple chicken empanada into a gourmet experience. The right sauce adds moisture, enhances the flavors of the filling, and provides a delightful textural contrast.
Spicy Sensations: Adding a Kick
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy sauces are an excellent choice. Consider a creamy chipotle sauce to bring smokiness and a mild burn. A spicy salsa verde, with its vibrant green color and tangy flavor, can also cut through the richness of the empanada. Another great option is a habanero aioli, but be warned, this one packs a punch!
Cooling Counterparts: Balancing the Flavors
If you prefer a milder flavor profile, opt for a cooling sauce that complements the savory chicken. A creamy avocado sauce or guacamole provides a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a cilantro-lime crema adds a zesty and herbaceous element. Consider a simple sour cream with a squeeze of lime for a classic and refreshing choice.
Traditional Touches: Classic Empanada Sauces
Many cultures have their own traditional sauces that perfectly accompany empanadas. In Argentina, chimichurri, a parsley-based sauce with garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, is a popular choice. In other Latin American countries, you might find a ji sauce, a garlicky green sauce that complements the savory filling. These sauces offer an authentic and flavorful experience.
Side Dish Sensations: Complements to Complete the Meal
While chicken empanadas can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, they also pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A well-chosen side dish can transform your empanadas into a complete and satisfying meal.
Salads: Adding Freshness and Vibrancy
A fresh salad is a great way to balance the richness of chicken empanadas. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. A cucumber and tomato salad with a sprinkle of feta cheese adds a Mediterranean touch. For a more substantial salad, consider a black bean and corn salad with a cilantro-lime dressing.
Rice and Grains: Hearty and Filling Options
Rice and grains are classic side dishes that complement a wide range of flavors. Spanish rice, with its savory tomato base and fluffy texture, is a natural pairing for chicken empanadas. Alternatively, quinoa offers a healthy and protein-rich option. You could also consider cilantro lime rice for a burst of freshness.
Vegetable Medleys: Adding Nutrients and Flavor
Roasted or grilled vegetables add a healthy and flavorful element to your empanada meal. Roasted sweet potatoes provide a touch of sweetness that complements the savory filling. Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with almost anything. A simple sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil offers a healthy and delicious option.
Drink Pairings: Quenching Your Thirst
The right drink can enhance the overall experience of eating chicken empanadas. Consider the flavors of the empanada and choose a beverage that complements or contrasts them.
Refreshing Choices: Light and Crisp
For a refreshing pairing, consider a light beer, such as a lager or pilsner. The crispness of the beer cuts through the richness of the empanada. Alternatively, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime provides a simple and hydrating option. Iced tea, especially a lemon-flavored variety, is another refreshing choice.
Bold Flavors: Matching the Intensity
If you’re enjoying spicy empanadas, you might want a drink that can stand up to the heat. A Mexican Coke, with its real cane sugar and bold flavor, is a classic pairing. Alternatively, a ginger beer provides a spicy and refreshing kick. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a horchata, a sweet rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon.
Wine Pairings: A Sophisticated Touch
Wine can be a surprisingly good pairing for chicken empanadas. A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the savory filling without overpowering it. A light-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, can also work well, especially with spicier empanadas.
Cultural Connections: Embracing Tradition
Empanadas have a rich history and are enjoyed in many different cultures. Exploring the traditional accompaniments from these cultures can offer a unique and authentic culinary experience.
Latin American Inspirations: A Culinary Journey
In Argentina, empanadas are often served with chimichurri sauce and a side of ensalada rusa, a potato salad with peas, carrots, and mayonnaise. In Chile, they might be accompanied by pebre, a Chilean salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and aji peppers. In Mexico, empanadas are often served with salsa roja or salsa verde, and a side of refried beans.
Spanish Influences: A Taste of Spain
In Spain, empanadas are often served as tapas, alongside other small dishes. They might be accompanied by patatas bravas, fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce, or pimientos de Padrón, small green peppers sautéed with olive oil and salt. A glass of Spanish wine, such as a Rioja or Albariño, is the perfect complement.
Beyond the Basics: Creative and Unique Pairings
Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative with your empanada pairings. The possibilities are endless!
Fruit Salsas: A Sweet and Savory Combination
A mango salsa or a pineapple salsa adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flavor that complements the savory chicken filling. The sweetness of the fruit balances the richness of the empanada, creating a delightful contrast.
Pickled Vegetables: Adding Tang and Crunch
Pickled onions or pickled jalapeños add a tangy and crunchy element that cuts through the richness of the empanada. The acidity of the pickles brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
Cheese Dips: A Decadent Indulgence
A warm queso dip or a cheese fondue provides a decadent and indulgent pairing for chicken empanadas. The creamy cheese complements the savory filling, creating a rich and satisfying experience.
Choosing what goes well with chicken empanadas is a matter of personal taste. However, by considering the flavors and textures of the different sauces, side dishes, and drinks, you can create a truly memorable culinary experience. Whether you prefer spicy sensations, cooling counterparts, or creative combinations, there’s a perfect pairing out there for you. So, go ahead and experiment, and discover your own favorite ways to enjoy these delicious savory pockets! Don’t be afraid to try new things and personalize your empanada experience! Consider the overall balance of flavors and textures to create a harmonious meal. And most importantly, have fun!
What are some classic dipping sauces that complement chicken empanadas?
Classic dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with chicken empanadas often provide a contrast in flavors and textures. Consider traditional options like chimichurri, a vibrant Argentine sauce with parsley, garlic, oregano, and red wine vinegar. Its herbaceous and slightly tangy profile cuts through the richness of the empanada filling beautifully.
Another great choice is a simple but flavorful salsa verde. The tomatillos, cilantro, onion, and chili peppers in salsa verde create a bright and refreshing counterpoint to the savory chicken. Both chimichurri and salsa verde enhance the overall eating experience, making each bite more exciting and satisfying.
Besides dipping sauces, what are some side dishes that pair well with chicken empanadas?
Beyond sauces, side dishes can round out a chicken empanada meal, providing balance and complementary flavors. A light and refreshing salad, such as a mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, is an excellent choice. The acidity and freshness of the salad help to cleanse the palate and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.
Alternatively, consider a side of Mexican rice or black beans. These options provide a hearty and satisfying complement to the empanadas, offering contrasting textures and familiar flavors. The slightly sweet and savory notes of Mexican rice or the earthy taste of black beans create a well-rounded and fulfilling culinary experience.
Can I pair chicken empanadas with a specific type of soup?
Yes, soup can be a delightful accompaniment to chicken empanadas, especially on a cooler day. A creamy tomato soup or a hearty black bean soup would both work well. The smooth texture and rich flavor of tomato soup complement the crispy empanada shell and savory chicken filling.
Black bean soup, with its slightly smoky and earthy notes, offers a different but equally satisfying contrast. The soup’s warmth and comforting qualities make it a perfect pairing for the empanadas, creating a balanced and flavorful meal that is both filling and delicious.
What types of drinks pair well with chicken empanadas?
The ideal drink pairing for chicken empanadas depends on personal preference and the specific flavor profile of the empanadas. For a refreshing option, consider a light-bodied beer like a Mexican lager or a crisp pilsner. The carbonation and subtle flavors of these beers help to cleanse the palate between bites.
Alternatively, a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can be an excellent choice. The acidity and bright fruit notes of these wines complement the savory chicken filling and the pastry crust, creating a harmonious and enjoyable pairing. Non-alcoholic options like agua fresca or iced tea also work well.
Are there any specific fruit-based accompaniments that go well with chicken empanadas?
While not as common, fruit-based accompaniments can offer a unique and refreshing twist to a chicken empanada meal. A mango salsa, with its sweet and tangy flavors, provides a delightful contrast to the savory empanada. The vibrant colors and juicy texture of the mango add an element of freshness to the dish.
Another option is a simple pineapple relish. The acidity and sweetness of pineapple cut through the richness of the chicken filling, creating a balanced and flavorful experience. The fruit’s natural sugars and tropical flavors enhance the overall taste and make the meal more interesting.
Can I serve chicken empanadas with a spicy dipping sauce?
Absolutely! A spicy dipping sauce can add a welcome kick to chicken empanadas, especially for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Consider a chipotle aioli, which combines the smoky flavor of chipotle peppers with the creamy richness of mayonnaise and garlic. This sauce provides a complex and satisfying heat that complements the savory chicken.
Alternatively, a spicy avocado crema can be a refreshing and flavorful choice. The creaminess of the avocado helps to temper the heat, while the added spices provide a pleasant warmth. Both chipotle aioli and spicy avocado crema offer a delightful contrast to the empanada’s flavors and textures, adding an exciting dimension to the meal.
What about serving chicken empanadas as part of a larger tapas-style meal?
Chicken empanadas are a fantastic addition to a tapas-style spread, offering a satisfying and flavorful bite-sized option. Consider pairing them with other small plates such as Spanish olives, patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), and grilled chorizo. The variety of flavors and textures in a tapas meal creates a fun and interactive dining experience.
To complement the empanadas, include other Spanish-inspired items like Manchego cheese, jamón serrano, and pan con tomate (bread with tomato). This combination of savory, salty, and slightly sweet elements provides a well-rounded and enjoyable meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. The empanadas add a hearty and familiar element to the diverse flavors of a tapas spread.