The Perfect Match: Our Top 5 Sauces for Empanadas

Introduction: While our empanadas are delicious on their own, the right sauce can elevate your experience to the next level. Whether you prefer traditional Latin flavors or modern twists, we've compiled our top five sauce pairings that complement our empanadas perfectly.

1. Chimichurri: The Classic Choice

Chimichurri is the quintessential empanada companion. This vibrant green sauce, made with fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements our beef and chicken empanadas.

Best Paired With: Beef, Chicken, and Spinach & Cheese empanadas

2. Salsa Roja: Bold and Spicy

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, our homemade salsa roja delivers authentic Latin flavor with roasted tomatoes, chiles, and garlic. It's the perfect choice for customers seeking a more robust, smoky taste.

Best Paired With: Beef, Jalapeño & Cheese, and specialty empanadas

3. Crema Agria: Cool and Creamy

A cooling contrast to spicy empanadas, crema agria (sour cream) is a staple in Latin American cuisine. Drizzle it over your empanada or use it as a dipping sauce for a creamy, tangy complement.

Best Paired With: Any empanada variety, especially spicy options

4. Aji Verde: Peruvian Green Sauce

This Peruvian favorite combines fresh cilantro, green chiles, and lime juice for a vibrant, slightly spicy sauce. It's an excellent choice for customers seeking something beyond traditional chimichurri.

Best Paired With: Chicken and seafood empanadas

5. Mojo Criollo: Cuban-Inspired Citrus

Mojo criollo, with its citrusy notes from lime and orange, adds a refreshing Caribbean twist. This sauce is perfect for lighter empanada varieties and pairs beautifully with cold beverages.

Best Paired With: Chicken, pork, and lighter vegetarian options

DIY: Make Your Own Chimichurri at Home

Want to make chimichurri from scratch? Here's our simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine parsley, cilantro, and garlic in a bowl
2. Add olive oil and red wine vinegar
3. Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper
4. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week

Tip: For a smoother sauce, pulse ingredients in a food processor, but be careful not to over-blend—chimichurri should have a rustic texture.

Beverage Pairings

The right beverage can enhance your empanada experience. Consider these options:

• Argentine Malbec: A full-bodied red wine that complements beef empanadas beautifully
• Craft Beer (IPA or Lager): The hoppy notes of an IPA or the crispness of a lager pair well with spicy varieties
• Horchata: A sweet, creamy rice-based drink that provides a cooling contrast to spicy empanadas
• Fresh Limeade: A refreshing, citrusy option that complements lighter empanada varieties

Conclusion

The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility. Whether you choose a traditional sauce or experiment with new flavors, the key is finding what delights your palate. Visit our shop to order your favorite empanada varieties, and don't forget to stock up on your preferred sauce!