Empanadas, a beloved culinary delight originating from Latin America and Spain, have gained popularity worldwide due to their delicious flavors and versatility. If you find yourself wondering how to say “empanadas” in English, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to refer to these delectable filled pastries. While regional variations exist, we will primarily focus on the most common English terminology. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to say “empanadas” in English!
Table of Contents
Formal Terminology:
1. Stuffed Pastries: This term is commonly used in formal settings when referring to empanadas. It adequately describes their nature as pastries filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or cheese. Although more technical, it is widely understood in English-speaking countries.
2. Turnovers: Another formal way to refer to empanadas is as “turnovers.” This term emphasizes the action of folding the dough over the filling, creating a pocket-like shape. It is often used when discussing similar dishes from other culinary traditions as well.
Informal Terminology:
1. Empanadas (pronounced “em-puh-NAH-duhs”): While the term “empanadas” may sound foreign to English speakers, it is widely adopted in informal contexts as well. Many English speakers recognize and use this term when referring to these delicious pastries.
2. Empies: A more casual and shortened version of “empanadas,” “empies” is gaining popularity in English-speaking regions. This term is often used among friends or in informal conversations, showing the influence and integration of global cuisines.
Tips and Examples:
Tips for Asking:
When asking or inquiring about empanadas in English, remember the following tips:
- Use a polite tone and friendly demeanor to ensure effective communication.
- Include descriptive terms such as “delicious,” “savory,” or “mouthwatering” to convey your enthusiasm.
- Provide context by mentioning the filling, such as “meat-filled pastries” or “cheese and spinach turnovers.”
- Consider mentioning the origin of the dish, as it may help in creating a connection and understanding.
Examples:
Example 1: Excuse me, could you please recommend any good places to try stuffed pastries in the neighborhood? I heard they are called empanadas.
Example 2: Hey, I’m craving some empies! Do you know any local bakeries that offer them?
By following these tips and using the provided examples, you will be able to effectively communicate your desire for empanadas in English without any confusion.
Regional Variations:
While the aforementioned terms are widely understood in English, it’s worth noting some regional variations in specific English-speaking countries:
England:
In England, the term “pasties” is used to describe a similar concept of filled pastries. However, “pasties” often refers to a distinct local variation made with ingredients like beef, potato, and onion.
United States:
In the United States, “empanadas” and “turnovers” are the most common English terms used. However, due to regional influences and diverse communities, you may also come across variations like “hand pies” or “meat pies” in certain areas.
Conclusion:
Now that you have an understanding of how to say “empanadas” in English, you can confidently explore various English terminology options. Whether you prefer the formal terms like “stuffed pastries” or the more informal “empanadas” and “empies,” you will be understood by English speakers around the world. Remember to consider the context and regional variations when discussing empanadas with locals, and enjoy indulging in these delicious filled pastries!
