How to Make Duck Rillettes Empanadas

A Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfectly Crispy, Savory Treat

Empanadas have a special way of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Crispy on the outside, rich and comforting on the inside, they’re the kind of food that can turn any moment into an occasion. This version highlights the luxurious flavor of Rillettes de Canard, creating an empanada that is buttery, savory, and wonderfully satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing a crowd-pleasing appetizer or crafting a memorable meal, this recipe walks you through every step to ensure your empanadas turn out beautifully every time.

Step 1

Add flour, salt, and baking powder to a food processor. Add the pieces of butter and pulse until the mixture is fully combined.

Step 2

Add the orange juice and half a cup of sparkling water. Add more sparkling water as needed until the dough forms soft clumps with no dry patches. Remove the dough from the food processor and gently knead until smooth.

Step 3

Transfer the dough to a bowl, lightly coat it with oil, cover, and let it rest at room temperature for one hour.

Step 4

While the dough rests, prepare the filling. Add shallots and garlic to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.

Step 5

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil along with the chopped shallots and garlic. Cook until tender and fragrant. Transfer the mixture to a bowl or tray, cover, and refrigerate until fully cooled.

Step 6

Prepare the empanada discs by weighing out between one and a half to two ounces of dough for each disc and rolling into balls. Use a tortilla press or rolling pin to flatten each ball to one eighth of an inch thick. Use a five inch cookie cutter to trim the edges. The discs can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

Step 7

Once the shallot mixture is chilled, add Rillettes de Canard, Moutarde à l'Ancienne, and fresh thyme leaves. Mix until fully combined and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8

Heat frying oil in a heavy bottomed pot to 375°F.

Step 9

Place a dough disc on a cutting board. Dip your fingers into a bowl of water and lightly wet half of the outer edge of the disc. This helps the dough seal cleanly when folded.

Step 10

Place three tablespoons of the duck filling in the center of the disc. Fold the dough over to create a semicircle and crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork. Place each assembled empanada on a baking sheet until ready to fry.

Step 11

When the oil reaches 375°F, fry two to three empanadas at a time until golden brown, about two to three minutes. Remove from the oil and transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate or resting rack. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

These duck rillettes empanadas are a celebration of rich French flavor wrapped in a perfectly crisp homemade dough. They’re indulgent without being complicated, elegant without being fussy, and absolutely unforgettable when served warm. Whether enjoyed as a starter or the centerpiece of a gathering, they’re sure to become one of your most requested recipes.

Enjoy every delicious bite.