The Empanada Debate: Why Salta’s Hand-Cut Beef Empanadas Reign Supreme (And Why You Should Drop Everything to Try Them)

When it comes to luxurious wool, few fibers can compete with that of the vicuña. This elegant, wild South American animal is not just a beautiful sight in the Andes; it's also a key player in the rich tapestry of textile history. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the vicuña, its connection to the guanaco and alpaca, and the fascinating role of indigenous peoples in this story. Get ready to dive into a world of luxury, heritage, and a bit of animal behavior! Meet the Vicuña Vicuñas are the divas of the Andes, known for their incredibly fine wool that is often called "the fiber of the gods." These slender creatures are similar to llamas and alpacas but are wild and significantly smaller. Vicuñas can only be sheared every two years, yielding just a few ounces of wool each time, making their fleece one of the most precious in the world. The fibers are not just soft; they are also incredibly warm and lightweight, perfect for those chilly Andean nights. The Origins: A Family Affair The story of the vicuña doesn't just end with its beauty and wool. Historically, the native peoples of South America have played a crucial role in the survival and domestication of these animals. They recognized the value of the vicuña's wool long before it became a fashion statement in high-end boutiques. Vicuñas are closely related to the guanaco, another wild camelid. Both belong to the Camelidae family, which also includes the domesticated alpaca and llama. Here’s where it gets interesting: through selective breeding, indigenous peoples managed to create the alpaca by crossbreeding the vicuña and guanaco. The result? A domesticated animal with softer wool and a friendly disposition, perfect for companionship and farming. Behavioral Breakdown: Vicuña, Guanaco, and Alpaca Now, let’s compare these three fascinating animals and their behaviors: Vicuña: As wild creatures, vicuñas are known for their agility and grace. They roam in family groups, typically led by a dominant male. Highly social, they communicate through a series of soft vocalizations and are always on the lookout for predators, making them skittish around humans. Guanaco: More laid-back than their vicuña cousins, guanacos are the larger wild relatives. They live in herds and are generally more tolerant of human presence, often found grazing in more accessible areas. They have a friendly disposition but can be quite protective of their territory. Alpaca: The domesticated offspring of the vicuña and guanaco, alpacas are the sociable fluffballs of the camelid family. Unlike their wild relatives, alpacas are bred for their fiber and are typically docile and friendly. They love to be around other alpacas and enjoy the company of humans, making them great pets as well as livestock. The Luxurious Wool: Use and Value When it comes to wool, each of these animals offers something unique: Vicuña Wool: Known for its incredible softness and warmth, vicuña wool is highly prized and often used in luxury garments. Due to its scarcity, it commands a high price, often seen in high-end fashion houses. Guanaco Wool: While not as soft as vicuña, guanaco wool is still highly valued. It is used for warmer, more rugged clothing and is appreciated for its durability. Alpaca Wool: Alpaca wool is softer than sheep's wool and is available in a variety of natural colors. It's commonly used for sweaters, scarves, and blankets, striking a balance between luxury and affordability. A Sustainable Legacy The traditions surrounding the shearing and use of these fibers are steeped in sustainability. Indigenous peoples have long practiced respectful harvesting methods, ensuring the well-being of the animals and the environment. Vicuñas are typically sheared only every two years, allowing their populations to thrive in the wild. By supporting the use of vicuña, guanaco, and alpaca wool, consumers can help sustain these traditional practices and preserve the cultural heritage of South America. It's a way to wear a piece of history while promoting ethical and sustainable fashion. Conclusion The vicuña, with its exquisite wool and wild spirit, is more than just a beautiful animal; it represents a rich cultural heritage and the ingenuity of indigenous peoples in South America. The journey from vicuñas and guanacos to the domesticated alpacas we know today is a testament to the deep connection between humans and nature. So, the next time you wrap yourself in a cozy alpaca sweater or admire the elegance of vicuña wool, remember the fascinating stories behind these remarkable animals. From the rugged Andes to the runways of the world, the legacy of these textiles continues to thrive, weaving a tale of tradition, artistry, and sustainability.

When it comes to empanadas, few variations are as revered as the salteñas from Salta, Argentina. These exquisite pastries are celebrated for their rich flavors and authentic preparation, setting them apart from the adaptations that have emerged, particularly in Bolivia. While both versions share a common heritage, they diverge significantly in taste and technique, especially when it comes to the use of gelatin in the Bolivian interpretation. The Essence of Authentic Salteñas Originating from the northwestern province of Salta, the authentic salteña is a culinary masterpiece. Filled with hand-cut beef, potatoes, eggs, onions, and a vibrant blend of local spices, these empanadas are a labor of love. The dough is crafted to achieve the perfect balance of flakiness and lightness, whether fried or baked. The hallmark of a true salteña lies in the meticulous preparation of its filling. When cooked, the natural juices from the hand-cut beef meld seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating a luscious filling that is both savory and satisfying, without the need for any additives. The Bolivian Adaptation: A Different Take In Bolivia, the salteña has evolved into a beloved variation that, while delicious in its own right, diverges from the original. Bolivian salteñas often feature a slightly sweeter dough and a filling that can include chicken or pork. However, what truly sets them apart is the addition of gelatin—a technique used to hold the juices together. This results in a filling that is noticeably thicker and more gelatinous, altering the experience of biting into a salteña. While this innovation may appeal to some, purists argue that it compromises the authenticity and integrity of the original recipe. The Flavor Showdown Authentic Salteñas: Hailing from the northwest province of Salta, these pastries are a true culinary treasure. In Salta, there’s no need for the term "salteña" to describe these empanadas; they are simply part of the local identity. Crafted with hand-cut beef, fresh potatoes, and a vibrant blend of spices, the flaky dough encases a rich, savory filling that embodies the essence of its origins. Bolivian Salteñas: While inspired by their Salteña counterparts, these variations introduce a unique twist. Often featuring a sweeter dough and a diverse range of fillings like chicken or pork, the use of gelatin creates a thicker, more cohesive texture. This innovation reflects Bolivia’s culinary creativity, offering a distinct experience that sets them apart from the original. Conclusion: A Culinary Legacy In the debate of salteñas vs. “real” salteñas, it’s clear that both versions have their merits, yet they represent two distinct culinary philosophies. The authentic salteña from Salta captures the essence of its origins, relying on the purity of its ingredients, while the Bolivian adaptation showcases a different approach, with innovations that cater to local tastes. As we savor each version, we celebrate not only the flavors but also the rich cultural exchanges that have shaped these iconic pastries. Whether you prefer the traditional salteña or its Bolivian counterpart, both embody the joy of culinary exploration and the love of good food. Salteñas from Salta For The Filling • 1 kilo of diced meat (top round or sirloin) ¼ inch • 700 g onion • 300 g red bell pepper (optional) • 250 g green onion • 400 g diced russet potatoes ¼ inch • 200 g beef tallow • 6 eggs • Salt to taste • 1 TBL of paprika • 1TBL of cumin • Directions 1. Dice the onions and peppers of the same size. 2. Cut the meat into small cubes and do the same with the potatoes, blanch for a few minutes in boiling water (they should not be cooked completely). 3. Place the fat in a pot and brown the peppers and onions until translucent. 4. Add salt, paprika and cumin. Let the spices cook for a minute and then add the meat mixing all ingredients together, cook for 10 minutes. 5. Remove from heat minutes before finishing cooking, season and let cool. 6. Add the potatoes, chopped green onion and chopped hard-boiled eggs just before assembling the empanadas. For the Dough: Ingredients yield 36 disks. 260 grams of water 1 Tablespoon of salt 80 grams of beef tallow 500 grams of all-purpose flour 1. Boil the water together with salt and beef fat. When the fat has melted, remove from the heat, transfer to a bowl and let it warm. 2. Place the flour and stir until the dough begins to form. 3. Place on the counter and knead until a homogeneous dough is formed. If necessary, add flour to achieve the desired consistency. 4. Rest for 30 minutes inside a plastic bag to prevent it from drying out. 5. To stretch by hand, make balls of 25 grams or the size of a walnut. 6. Pass the ball through flour, crush maintaining the circular shape and with a rolling pin stretch. 7. Turning and turning quarters always on the same side, in this way the circular shape is generated and maintained. If necessary, sprinkle with more flour to prevent it from sticking and losing its shape. They should be very thin, approximately 1 mm thick, between 10 and 12 cm in diameter. 8. Step 8 9. Fill, form the “repulgue” and bake or fry. Bolivian Salteñas: For The Filling • 1 (.25 ounce) package unflavored gelatin • 3 potatoes, peeled • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 1 ½ pounds ground beef • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen petite peas, thawed • 1 spring onion, sliced • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped • 4 teaspoons white sugar • 2 teaspoons of paprika • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin • 1 ½ teaspoons salt • ¼ teaspoon black pepper • 3 tablespoons jalapeno sauce (Optional) • ½ cup cold water • 3 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and chopped • 1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained • 1 cup raisins, soaked in water and drained For the Dough: • 6 cups all-purpose flour • ¼ cup white sugar • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 cup butter, cubed • 1 ½ cups hot water • 2 eggs, beaten • 2 teaspoons of water • 1 tablespoon paprika Directions 1. Sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water in a heat-proof dish; set aside for 10 minutes. Microwave the rehydrated gelatin for 30 seconds or until melted (or melt it over a pot of simmering water). Transfer the melted gelatin to a small bowl and refrigerate until set. 2. Place the potatoes into a saucepan, cover with water, and bring them to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat, and simmer until the potatoes are cooked but still firm, about 10 minutes. Remove from water, allow it to cool, and shred into a bowl; set aside. 3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef, and cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks, for about 10 minutes. Drain excess grease. Stir in the shredded potatoes, peas, spring onion, parsley, 4 teaspoons sugar, 2 teaspoons paprika, cumin, salt and black pepper, and 3 tablespoons jalapeno sauce (optional). Simmer until hot, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. 4. Preheat an oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet, or line it with parchment paper. 5. Combine the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cut in the butter with a knife or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. (This can also be done in a food processor: pulse the butter and flour mixture until it looks like cornmeal. Turn mixture into a bowl and proceed.) Slowly add the hot water and knead until smooth, for about 3 minutes. Keep the dough covered with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm. Divide the dough into 16 pieces and roll them into balls. Keep the other balls of dough covered with a towel while you roll out each round. 6. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball of dough into a 1/8-inch-thick circle. Whisk the beaten eggs and 2 teaspoons water in a small bowl. Lightly brush egg wash on the edges of the dough circle. Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat filling on one half of the dough round; top it with about 1/2 teaspoon of hard-boiled egg, 1/4 teaspoon of gelatin, a few sliced black olives, and some raisins. 7. Fold the dough over the filling. Seal and scallop the edges of the dough together. To scallop, start at one edge of the half circle: fold a small piece of dough (the size of your fingernail) over the seam and press gently. Fold another small piece of dough over the seam so that it overlaps the first piece; repeat until you have sealed the half circle. 8. Place the saltena on the prepared baking sheet and continue with the remaining dough and filling. Whisk the paprika into the remaining egg wash and brush the saltenas with the egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, for 15 to 20 minutes.

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