Empanada is a delicious and popular dish originating from Latin America. For those who are unfamiliar with this culinary delight, it’s essentially a pastry filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or even fruits. If you’re ever in a situation where you need to refer to an empanada in English, this guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to do so. So grab a seat and let’s explore the different ways to say “empanada”!
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Formal Ways to Say Empanada
When it comes to using formal language, it’s important to showcase a more professional tone. Here are a few formal ways to refer to an empanada in English:
1. Pastry Pocket
The term “pastry pocket” is a great choice when trying to describe an empanada in more formal settings. It highlights the pastry’s nature while indicating that it contains filling. For example:
“Would you like to try a delicious pastry pocket filled with savory meat?”
2. Stuffed Pastry
Another option is to use the term “stuffed pastry” as it accurately describes an empanada without relying on foreign vocabulary. Here’s an example sentence:
“These stuffed pastries are a delightful combination of flavors and textures.”
Informal Ways to Say Empanada
In informal settings, you have more freedom to play with language. Here are a few informal ways to refer to an empanada in English:
1. Handy Snack
Calling an empanada a “handy snack” is a casual and friendly way to describe it. This term suggests that it’s a convenient treat that you can easily eat on the go. For example:
“Let’s grab a couple of these tasty handy snacks for a picnic in the park!”
2. Savory Turnover
Another informal term for empanada is a “savory turnover.” It emphasizes the turnover’s fillings while adding a touch of flavor to the description. Here’s an example:
“I could really go for a delicious savory turnover right now.”
Regional Variations
Empanada variations can differ across regions. Here are a few examples of how empanadas are referred to in different English-speaking areas:
1. British English: Cornish Pasty
In British English, a similar dish that bears resemblance to an empanada is called a “Cornish pasty.” Though not identical, it shares the concept of filling pastry with delicious ingredients. Here’s an example:
“Have you tried a traditional Cornish pasty? It’s like an English version of an empanada!”
2. South African English: Samoosa
In South African English, an empanada is known as a “samoosa.” This delightful variation includes a crispy pastry filled with savory ingredients. For instance:
“Would you like to try a delicious samoosa? It’s a South African twist on the classic empanada.”
Remember, these regional variations may not be interchangeable with the term “empanada” in all contexts, so it’s important to consider the appropriate usage based on your audience or location.
Conclusion
Empanadas offer a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures that have gained popularity worldwide. When it comes to discussing this delectable treat in English, there are several ways to do so. For formal occasions, consider using phrases like “pastry pocket” or “stuffed pastry.” In informal settings, you can opt for the more casual “handy snack” or “savory turnover.” And, if you’re exploring regional variations, remember that in British English it’s known as a “Cornish pasty,” while in South African English it’s referred to as a “samoosa.”
So, whether you’re enjoying an empanada at home, in a restaurant, or while traveling, you now have a variety of ways to express your love for this culinary delight in English. Bon appétit!
