Empanadas are a versatile and delicious option for anyone looking for a convenient meal delivered straight to their door. These savory or sweet hand pies consist of a pastry crust filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, vegetables, or fruit. Because they are compact and hold heat well, empanadas are one of the best foods to order for delivery. This guide will help you navigate the different styles of empanadas available, how to find the best local delivery services, and how to ensure your food arrives fresh and ready to eat.
Understanding Different Types of Empanadas
Before placing an order, it is helpful to understand that empanadas vary significantly depending on their country of origin. Knowing these differences helps you choose the flavor profile and texture you prefer. Most delivery menus will specify the regional style of their empanadas.
Argentine Empanadas are perhaps the most common style found in delivery apps. They are typically made with a wheat-based flour dough and are often baked, though some versions are fried. Common fillings include ground beef with olives and eggs, ham and cheese, or humita (sweet corn and cream).
Colombian and Venezuelan Empanadas differ because they usually use a cornmeal-based dough, which gives them a distinct yellow color and a crunchy texture. These are almost always deep-fried. They are frequently filled with shredded beef or chicken and potatoes and are traditionally served with a spicy vinegar-based sauce called ají.
Mexican Empanadas can be either savory or sweet. While savory versions exist, many Mexican bakeries offer sweet delivery options filled with pumpkin, pineapple, or cajeta (caramel). These are excellent for a dessert delivery or a light breakfast.
How to Find Empanada Delivery Near You
Finding a reliable source for empanada delivery is easier than ever thanks to digital platforms. You have several options depending on whether you want a quick snack or a full meal for a large group.
- Third-Party Delivery Apps: Services like DoorDash, UberEats, and Grubhub are the fastest way to see a list of local restaurants. Search for “empanadas” or “Latin American food” to see available vendors.
- Specialized Empanada Shops: Many cities now have “empanaderias” that focus solely on these pastries. Ordering directly from their websites often ensures better quality control and may save you money on service fees.
- Local Bakeries: Do not overlook traditional Latin bakeries. Many offer delivery through local couriers and provide some of the most authentic, handmade options available.
- Frozen Delivery Services: If you want to stock up, some companies ship high-quality frozen empanadas nationwide. These are delivered to your door and can be baked or air-fried whenever you need a quick meal.
Tips for a Successful Delivery Order
To get the best experience when ordering empanada delivery, keep a few practical tips in mind. Because empanadas are small, most people order between two and four per person for a full meal. Many restaurants offer “dozen” or “half-dozen” bundles which are more cost-effective than ordering individually.
Check for Dipping Sauces: Empanadas are often enhanced by sauces. When ordering, check if the restaurant includes chimichurri, ají, or salsa. If they aren’t included automatically, it is usually worth adding a few sides to your cart to prevent the pastry from feeling too dry.
Read Customer Reviews: Look specifically for comments regarding the “crispiness” of the crust upon arrival. Some dough types travel better than others. Reviews can also tell you if the fillings are generous or if the empanadas are mostly air.
Note the Cooking Method: If you prefer a healthier option, look for shops that offer “baked” empanadas. If you want maximum crunch, look for “fried” options, but be aware that fried foods can sometimes become soft if they sit in a delivery container for too long.
How to Keep Empanadas Fresh and Crispy
The biggest challenge with food delivery is maintaining the ideal texture during transit. Empanadas can sometimes trap steam inside their packaging, which leads to a soft or soggy crust. Fortunately, there are simple ways to restore them to their original quality once they arrive at your home.
If your empanadas arrive a bit soft, avoid using the microwave for reheating. Microwaves tend to make the dough rubbery. Instead, use one of the following methods for the best results:
- The Air Fryer: This is the most effective tool. Place the empanadas in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes. This quickly crisps the exterior without drying out the filling.
- The Conventional Oven: Pre-heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and heat for 5 to 7 minutes. This is ideal if you are reheating a large order for a group.
- The Toaster Oven: For one or two empanadas, a toaster oven works just as well as a full-sized oven and saves energy.
Ordering for Groups and Events
Empanadas are a perfect choice for office lunches, parties, or family gatherings because they are easy to eat without utensils. When ordering for a group, it is helpful to choose a variety of fillings to accommodate different tastes. Most shops mark the crust of the empanada with specific patterns or letters so you can tell which is which.
Always include a few vegetarian or vegan options. Spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or black bean and corn are popular choices that satisfy guests with dietary restrictions. If you are ordering for an event, place your order at least 24 hours in advance if the shop allows it. This ensures the kitchen can prepare a large volume of fresh dough and fillings for your specific time slot.
Conclusion
Empanada delivery offers a convenient, flavorful, and satisfying way to enjoy a world-class snack or meal at home. By understanding the different regional styles and using the right reheating methods, you can enjoy a high-quality dining experience regardless of your location. Whether you are ordering a quick lunch for yourself or a large spread for a party, these tips will ensure your meal is a success. For more tips on food delivery and home dining, explore our other articles on local services and meal planning.