11 Best Empanada Presses of 2024 – A Comprehensive Review
In the world of culinary delights, empanadas hold a special place. These delicious pastries, which originated in Spain, are enjoyed by people all over the world. While eating empanadas is a delightful experience, shaping and making these crescent-shaped treats can be a time-consuming task. Fortunately, empanada presses come to the rescue, allowing you to effortlessly cut and shape empanada dough. In this article, we present a comprehensive review of the 11 best empanada presses of 2023.
Understanding empanada presses and how to use them
Before delving into the specifics of the best empanada presses available, it is important to understand what these tools are and how they are used. Empanadas are savory pastries typically filled with ingredients such as chicken, beef, cheese, or vegetables. The process of making empanadas involves cutting out a disc of dough, placing the filling inside, and folding it in half. The critical step is to press the edges together firmly to ensure that the dough does not open during baking, thus preserving the delicious filling.
Empanada presses are simple molds designed to streamline the empanada forming process. These presses typically consist of a circular base that can be used to cut out circles of dough for future empanadas. To use an empanada press effectively, place the dough on the press, apply water around the edges for a secure seal, add the desired filling, and close the press. This seals the filling inside while also sealing the edges of the empanada. The result is a quick, easy and uniform dough that is visually appealing.
Factors to consider when choosing an empanada press
With so many empanada presses on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key factors to consider when choosing an empanada press:
1. Size: Empanada presses come in a variety of sizes. If you prefer smaller empanadas, a press with a diameter of 3-4 inches would be appropriate. For larger empanadas, choose a press with a diameter of 6 inches or more. Consider purchasing a set that includes several presses of different sizes for added versatility.
2. Multifunctional design: Look for empanada presses that offer additional features. Some presses have a back side that can be used as a cutter, eliminating the need for a separate cutting tool. This multi-function design increases convenience and efficiency in the kitchen.
3. Ease of use: When choosing an empanada press, pay attention to the design of the handles. The handle should be comfortable to hold and press the dough firmly together. A well-designed handle will contribute to a seamless and hassle-free empanada making experience.
4. Material: Empanada presses are typically made of stainless steel or plastic. Both materials have their benefits. Stainless steel presses are durable and provide a sleek appearance, while plastic presses are lightweight and often dishwasher safe. Regardless of the material, make sure the press you choose is not flimsy.
5. Ease of cleaning: Consider your preference for cleaning kitchen tools. If you prefer dishwasher-safe tools, choose empanada presses that are dishwasher safe. It is important to note that empanada presses with wooden details are typically not dishwasher safe.
The 11 Best Empanada Presses of 2023
To help you choose the ideal empanada press, we have compiled a list of the 11 best empanada presses available in 2023. Each press on this list offers unique features and benefits to ensure a delightful empanada-making experience.
1. Prepworks Multifunction Dough Press: This set includes three empanada presses in different colors and sizes (4, 5, and 6 inches in diameter). Made of plastic, these presses are dishwasher safe and have a back that can be used as a cutter. They produce uniform empanadas with consistently clean edges.
2. Machika Dough Press Set: This versatile set includes four empanada presses of different sizes (3, 4, 5 and 6 inches in diameter). Made of plastic, these presses are easy to clean and can be used to make a variety of filled pastries, pierogis and patties.
3. BTaT Dough Press Set: This set includes three colorful plastic empanada presses (3.75, 4.75 and 6 inches in diameter). The back of these presses doubles as a cutter, and the plastic handles allow for easy sealing. The different sizes allow you to make mini-pies, meat sandwiches and dumplings.
4. Magic Dumpling Maker Press Set: This set includes three plastic empanada presses (3.5, 4.5 and 6 inches in diameter) and a dumpling mold. The presses have ergonomic handles for easy sealing and cutting and are dishwasher safe. With this set, you can easily make empanadas, dumplings, and more.
5. IMUSA USA Empanada Maker: Made of durable plastic, this empanada maker is 5 inches in diameter and features a textured surface for a decorative edge. It is easy to use and clean, making it an excellent option for beginners.
6. Norpro 1047 Empanada Maker: This stainless steel empanada maker has a 5-inch diameter and a comfortable handle for easy squeezing. It is dishwasher safe and produces perfectly shaped empanadas with sealed edges.
7. RSVP International Durable Empanada Press: This stainless steel press has a 5.75-inch diameter and a sturdy handle for efficient sealing. It is dishwasher safe and produces professional-looking empanadas.
8. Tupperware Empanada Maker Set: This set includes two plastic empanada presses (3.5 and 4.5 inches in diameter) and a cutter. The presses have comfortable handles and are dishwasher safe. With this set, you can easily make empanadas and other filled pastries.
9. Fox Run Brands 57035 Empanada Maker: Made of durable plastic, this empanada maker has a 5-inch diameter and a fluted edge design for decorative empanadas. It is easy to use and clean, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.
10. HIC Harold Import Co. Empanada Press: This stainless steel empanada press has a 6-inch diameter and a comfortable handle for easy sealing. It is dishwasher safe and produces even empanadas with professional-looking edges.
11. Pampered Chef Empanada Press: Made of durable plastic, this press has a 3.5-inch diameter and a simple design for effortless sealing. It is dishwasher safe and perfect for making mini empanadas or other bite-sized pastries.
Bottom Line
When it comes to making homemade empanadas, having the right tools can make all the difference. Empanada presses offer a convenient and efficient way to shape and seal empanadas, resulting in uniform and visually appealing pastries. When choosing an empanada press, consider factors such as size, multi-function design, ease of use, material and ease of cleaning.
The 11 empanada presses highlighted in this article represent some of the best options available in 2024. Each press offers unique features and benefits to suit different preferences and needs. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, investing in a high-quality empanada press will enhance your empanada-making skills and allow you to create delicious and beautifully crafted pastries.
FAQS
How do empanada presses work?
Empanada presses are simple molds that streamline the process of forming empanadas. They typically consist of a circular base that can be used to cut out circles of dough for the empanadas. The dough is placed on the press, water is applied around the edges for a secure seal, the desired filling is added, and the press is closed to seal the edges and form the empanada.
What factors should I consider when choosing an empanada press?
When choosing an empanada press, consider factors such as size (for desired empanada size), multifunctional design (additional features such as a back cutter), ease of use (comfortable handles for a firm seal), material (stainless steel or plastic), and ease of cleaning (dishwasher safe or not).
Can I use empanada presses for other types of pastries?
Yes, many empanada presses can be used to make a variety of filled pastries such as pierogies, meat sandwiches, dumplings, mini pies and more. The versatility of empanada presses makes them a handy tool in the kitchen.
What are the advantages of using an empanada press?
There are several advantages to using an empanada press. It saves time by quickly forming and sealing empanadas, ensuring consistency in size and appearance. It also increases efficiency and convenience in the kitchen, especially when making a large batch of empanadas. In addition, empanada presses help create neatly sealed edges that prevent the filling from escaping during baking.
Are empanada presses dishwasher safe?
The dishwasher safety of empanada presses depends on the specific model and material. Stainless steel empanada presses are often dishwasher safe, while those with wooden details or certain plastic presses may not be dishwasher safe. It is important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning guidelines.
Can I make different sizes of empanadas with an empanada press?
Yes, many empanada presses come in different sizes or as a set of multiple press sizes. This allows you to make different sizes of empanadas based on your preference or recipe requirements. Having the ability to make empanadas of different sizes adds versatility to your culinary endeavors.