In Puerto Rico, the popular filled pastries commonly known as empanadas are typically referred to as Empanadas or Empanadillas. However, the term "Empanada" in Puerto Rico carries a broader meaning, encompassing not only the traditional filled dough but also other fried delicacies.
Common Terms for the Filled Pastry
For the delicious dough that is filled with various proteins, then fried or baked, Puerto Ricans most often use two terms:
- Empanada: This is the widely recognized term for the savory pastry.
- Empanadilla: Often used interchangeably with Empanada when referring to the filled, fried, or baked dough.
These pastries are characterized by their versatile dough, which can be made from a variety of ingredients, and their delectable protein fillings.
The Broader Meaning of "Empanada" in Puerto Rico
A unique aspect of the terminology in Puerto Rico is that the word Empanada can also refer to a breaded piece of fried chicken or steak. This means that when ordering an "Empanada," one might receive either the traditional filled pastry or a piece of fried, breaded meat, depending on the context or establishment.
To clarify the distinction and uses of these terms in Puerto Rico, here's a brief overview:
| Term | Primary Meaning in Puerto Rico | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Empanada | 1. Traditional filled pastry. 2. Breaded piece of fried chicken or steak. |
A dough filled with protein (fried or baked), or a piece of meat (chicken/steak) that has been breaded and fried. |
| Empanadilla | Traditional filled pastry. | A dough filled with protein (fried or baked), often used interchangeably with "Empanada" for the pastry. |
This dual meaning of "Empanada" highlights the richness and nuances of culinary terminology in Puerto Rico, where a single word can describe different, yet equally delicious, fried delights.
