Empanadas Gallegas – Traditional Galician Tuna Pie Recipe

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Homemade Empanada Gallega – traditional Spanish tuna pie


Empanadas Gallegas – Galician Tuna Pie

When we think of Spanish cuisine, dishes like paella, tapas, or churros usually come to mind. But in the lush, coastal region of Galicia, there is another traditional dish that has stood the test of time – Empanadas Gallegas. Known in English as Galician tuna pie, this savory pastry is beloved across Spain and beyond.

Unlike small empanadas you might find in Latin America, Empanada Gallega is a large pie made in a baking tray, cut into squares, and shared with family and friends. With its crispy golden crust and flavorful tuna and vegetable filling, it represents the heart of Galician cooking: simple, rustic, and deeply satisfying.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of Empanadas Gallegas, its cultural importance, the authentic recipe, variations, and tips to make the perfect tuna pie at home.

A Taste of Galicia – The Origin of Empanadas Gallegas

Galicia, located in northwestern Spain, is famous for its green landscapes, fishing villages, and strong ties to the Atlantic Ocean. With such a rich seafood tradition, it’s no surprise that tuna empanada became one of the region’s signature dishes.

Historically, empanadas were portable meals for farmers and sailors – easy to carry, nourishing, and long-lasting. Over time, they became a festive dish, especially during fiestas, pilgrimages, and family gatherings.

The word empanada comes from empanar, meaning “to wrap in bread.” While Latin American empanadas are usually small, folded pastries, the Galician version is baked as a large pie, sliced into portions like a cake.

What Makes Empanada Gallega Unique?

  1. Large Sharing Size – Instead of individual pockets, it’s baked in one big tray.

  2. Tuna Filling – Classic version uses canned tuna, onion, peppers, and tomato sofrito.

  3. Olive Oil Dough – The dough is enriched with olive oil and sometimes even flavored with the filling oil.

  4. Galician Tradition – Often served at parties, weddings, and special events in Galicia.

Ingredients for Traditional Empanada Gallega

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare a 12-slice tuna pie:

For the Dough

  • 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour

  • 200ml (3/4 cup) warm water

  • 100ml (1/2 cup) olive oil (use some from tuna cans for extra flavor)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 15g fresh yeast or 7g dry yeast

For the Filling

  • 3 cans (about 300g) tuna in olive oil, drained (reserve some oil)

  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 large tomatoes, grated or blended

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

To Finish

  • 1 egg yolk (for brushing before baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • Mix yeast with warm water and let it sit for 10 minutes.

  • In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Add olive oil and yeast mixture.

  • Knead into a smooth dough. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Sofrito Filling

  • Heat olive oil in a pan. Add onions, garlic, and peppers. Cook until softened.

  • Add grated tomato and paprika. Simmer until thick.

  • Stir in tuna and mix well. Allow filling to cool before using.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanada

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

  • Divide dough into two portions. Roll out the first half and place on a greased baking tray.

  • Spread the tuna filling evenly.

  • Roll out the second half of dough and cover the filling. Seal edges by pinching.

  • Brush the top with egg yolk.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown.

  • Let cool slightly before slicing into squares.

Variations of Empanadas Gallegas

  • Empanada de Pollo – With shredded chicken.

  • Empanada de Marisco – With mussels, octopus, or mixed seafood.

  • Vegetarian Empanada – With spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

  • Chorizo Empanada – A meatier, smoky version.

How to Serve Empanada Gallega

Empanada Gallega is typically eaten at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, parties, and road trips. In Galicia, it’s often paired with a glass of Albariño wine, a crisp white from the region.

Cut into squares and serve as part of a tapas spread, or enjoy as a light meal with a fresh salad.

Nutritional Value (per slice, approx.)

  • Calories: 310

  • Protein: 14g

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 2g

Why You Should Try Empanada Gallega

If you love savory pies, tuna dishes, or Spanish cuisine in general, Empanada Gallega is a must-try. Its combination of a flaky olive-oil crust and flavorful tuna filling makes it both comforting and unique.

Unlike many complicated Spanish dishes, this one is quite simple to prepare, yet it looks stunning and feeds a crowd – perfect for fiestas and family meals.

Conclusion

Empanadas Gallegas are more than just a recipe – they’re a piece of Galician heritage. Whether served at a family gathering, a fiesta, or simply as a quick lunch, this tuna pie brings people together and celebrates Spain’s culinary traditions.

Next time you want to try something beyond paella or tapas, bake an Empanada Gallega and discover the rich flavors of Galicia.

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