National Empanada Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Mar 04, 2022
Fact-checked by Mannat Sharma
It is interesting to learn about National Empanada Day.

Where is National Empanada Day celebrated?

April 8 is primarily observed as National Empanada Day. Empanadas are a savory dish of pastries filled with different ingredients. In honor of these delicious pastries, this day is celebrated all across the regions of the US.

Who is National Empanada Day celebrated by?

The different filling types that can be put inside the empanadas are chicken, pork, beef, vegetables, and even seafood, alongside various other ingredients. The National Empanada Day is observed on April 8, every year, when people from all across the different parts of the US come together to celebrate their mutual love for this dish.

When did National Empanada Day first start?

The exact date when this particular day was established is not yet known. Regardless, this day is among the favorite national holidays for the people of the US, as they get to eat this amazing food and even try out new recipes.

Who started National Empanada Day?

Not much is known about who exactly established this day for the first time. But one time that is clear is Spain and Portugal were the first to introduce this amazing delicious food to the world.

History And Timelines

There is no perfect time to eat empanadas. You can eat them for breakfast, or as a dessert, or even in your main course. They also come in a lot of varieties like chicken, pork loin, or even fruits and vegetables. That is the beauty of this famous dish since almost everyone can enjoy them.

Traditions And Customs

An interesting fact about empanadas is that this particular dish was introduced to South America by Spanish immigrants. Since then, they have become people's favorite. There are various ways to cook empanadas. On this day, it is a tradition to eat empanadas, or even try new recipes, for making one.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Empanada Day

You can celebrate this day by making one at home. The various ingredients required to make empanadas are dough, cheese, chili peppers, potatoes, carrots, spinach, garlic, pork, beef, and many others.

You can choose your filling according to your preference. If you are a typical meat lover, you can always try out the chicken empanadas, the pork ones, or even those filled with beef fillings.

Empanadas can be both baked or fried. The choice is yours. You can also add your preference for filling.

If you are a vegetarian, you can try out the fillings of sweet potatoes, cheese, or even fruit. They can be eaten both as a main course or dessert.

You can also go out without your friends and family and share a plate of this delicious food. Also, make sure to post the pictures on your social media as well. You can share your favorite recipe with your close ones or even try a new one.

Facts And Stats

  • The term 'empanada' has come from the Spanish word 'Empanar,' which means to wrap in bread.
  • Empanadas can be both baked or fried.
  • Bolivian empanadas go by the name 'Saltenas,' and the fillings generally include pork, chicken or beef, and even potatoes and raisins.
  • The name of this particular dish differs from country to country.

Empanadas In Ancient Persia

Ancient Persia records evidence of this particular food during 100 BC.

100 BC

Medieval Iberia

During this period, there has been evidence of this food making its appearance in medieval Iberia.

711 AD

Empanada Recipe In A Cookbook

The recipe for empanadas with seafood fillings was published in a cookbook written by the Spanish chef Robert De Nola.

1520

Introduced To Aztecs

During this time, this famous dish that was so loved by the Spanish was introduced to the Empires of Aztech and Mayans.

16th Century

Introduced To South America

Empanadas were introduced to the people of South America by the Spanish immigrants during this period.

1846-1932

Is there a National Empanada Day?

Yes, National Empanada Day is celebrated every year on April 8.

What is another name for an empanada?

Empanadas are called by a varied name, depending on which country they are from. Some of the common names of empanadas are samosa, dumplings, and pastry, among many others. The word Empanada itself is derived from the Spanish word 'empanar.'

Which countries celebrate National Empanada Day?

Empanadas are popular dishes in various regions like Portugal, Latin America, and the Philippines.

Can vegetarians celebrate National Empanada Day?

This particular food is made from dough, and a variety of fillings like potatoes, cheese, peas, and even carrots can be used to make this food item. They can either be baked or fried. So, yes, vegetarians can also celebrate this special day.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Wednesday, April 08, 2020
  • Thursday, April 08, 2021
  • Friday, April 08, 2022
  • Saturday, April 08, 2023
  • Monday, April 08, 2024

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Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

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Fact-checked by Mannat Sharma

Bachelor of Technology specializing in Computers and Communication

Mannat Sharma picture

Mannat SharmaBachelor of Technology specializing in Computers and Communication

As an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computers and Communication Engineering from Manipal University, Jaipur, Mannat is driven to take on challenges outside of her niche. She has previous experience as a senior marketing and sales associate as well as in branding.

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