Bitter Greens and Black Bean Empanadas with Chipotle Crema
These empanadas offer a delightful savory experience with the slight bitterness of sautéed greens balanced by hearty black beans. Encased in a flaky, golden pastry, they are a flavorful and satisfying dinner option. A smoky chipotle crema adds a touch of creaminess and spice.

Prep Time
45 min
Difficulty
Easy
Servings
6
Calories
350 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
~5 min - 2
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
~1 min - 3
Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. If the skillet seems dry, add a tablespoon of water.
~7 min - 4
Stir in the rinsed black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
~3 min - 5
Remove the filling from heat and let it cool slightly.
- 6
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 7
Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto one half of each empanada disc. Fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
~5 min - 8
Place the sealed empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
- 9
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
~20 min - 10
While the empanadas are baking, prepare the chipotle crema. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, minced chipotle peppers and sauce, lime juice, and 1-2 tablespoons of water until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
~5 min - 11
Serve the hot empanadas with the chipotle crema for dipping.
Tips
- For an even crispier crust, brush the empanadas with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) before baking.
- Leftover filling can be used as a side dish or as a topping for rice or nachos.
Featured Collections
Popular Recipes

Ancho Chili & Mango Glazed Pork Belly Tacos with Pickled Red Onion
Succulent pork belly, slow-cooked and then lacquered with a smoky ancho chili and sweet-tart mango glaze, is nestled into warm corn tortillas. Topped with vibrant, quick-pickled red onions and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, these tacos offer a complex interplay of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors.
HalalSmoked Chili & Chocolate Tamales with Mango Salsa
These tamales offer a complex flavor profile, combining the earthy smokiness of chipotle with the rich bitterness of dark chocolate, all balanced by a vibrant, sweet-and-tangy mango salsa. Each bite is a journey through salty, sweet, and umami notes, making them an unforgettable appetizer.
HalalChocolate Mole Tartlets with Candied Lime Zest
These elegant tartlets feature a rich, dark chocolate ganache infused with the complex, bitter, and savory notes of mole poblano. A bright, candied lime zest topping provides a surprising counterpoint to the deep flavors.
HalalSmoked Habanero & Mango 'Aguachile' Bites with Plantain Crisps
These vibrant bites feature thinly sliced, quickly cured scallops bathed in a smoky, fiery habanero and mango marinade. Served atop crispy plantain rounds, they offer a complex interplay of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors with a delightful textural contrast.