Deeply rooted in Oaxacan tradition, Empanadas Oaxaqueñas are plump half-moons of fresh masa stuffed and fried until golden. The classic Oaxacan filling pairs stretchy quesillo with squash blossoms, or a spoonful of mole amarillo, the yellow mole that turns them into a meal. Crisp outside, molten inside, they are the beloved antojito of Oaxacan markets and fiestas.
Empanadas Oaxaqueñas
Deeply rooted in Oaxacan tradition, Empanadas Oaxaqueñas are plump half-moons of fresh masa stuffed and fried until golden.

Step by stepInstructions
- Beat the lard into the masa with the salt and enough warm water to make a soft, pliable dough.
- Press the dough into 12 discs about 5 inches across, keeping them slightly thicker at the edges.
- Fill each disc with quesillo and squash blossoms, or a generous spoonful of mole amarillo.
- Fold the discs into half-moons and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Fry in hot oil, 350°F (175°C), for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden and puffed.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot, with salsa or more mole amarillo on the side.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Seal the edges with a little water and press with a fork if the dough is dry and cracks. Squash blossoms are seasonal — when unavailable, use mole amarillo and quesillo alone, the most classic combination.

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