How to make an empanada

There are few things more Latin than an empanada and we will be showcasing this snacky street food at La Clave Fest - our Latin summer festival in Crouch End - this Saturday, June 17.

For those who don't know, the empanada is a stuffed bread or pastry that has been baked or fried. It comes from the Spanish verb 'empanar', which means to wrap or coat in bread.

Esnayder Cuartas, the chef behind our fine dining pop-up at our festival, tells us that they were first introduced in northern Spain by the Moors during their occupation. They have since had many different interpretations and can be stuffed with chicken, beef, pork, fish or vegetables.

There are also sweet empanadas that are made with floury dough, coated with dusting sugar and stuffed with jam. Some Latin American families serve these at Christmas and they are smaller in size than their savoury cousins.

Find out how you can make a classic empanada here with a recipe that Esnayder has graciously given us. And make sure to come along to our Latin fusion pop-up to taste Esnayder's own, more sophisticated version.

The pop-up is taking place in the beautiful committee room inside the Hornsey Town Hall on Saturday evening. You get a cocktail and a five-course menu for £45. Tickets are available now, but there's limited availability. Book soon for a bit of Latin sunshine on a plate: https://www.laclavefest.co.uk/sabor