I need some kind of alert system for these “national” food “holidays” so that I’ll be adequately prepared to celebrate. Thanks to Taylor, I was informed around 4pm that today–this today–is National Empanada Day. Why wouldn’t something like that be on all calendars? Seriously. The government’s on the verge of a shutdown and we’ve got a national holiday to tend to over here. For shame.

I rallied the troops and we got to work on this important part of American (Mexican?) tradition. Ready guys??

I used this vegan empanada recipe for the dough only (and then I topped it with cheese, it’s fine) and we decided to wing it on the fillings.

We went with:

• Onion
• Pinto beans
• Zucchini
• Garlic
• Spinach
• Roasted corn
• Jalapeno

I started out making the dough because it had to chill for an hour. You can eat Stew’s amazing salsa while you wait.

While that was in the fridge, I sauteed the veggie medley. When everything’s ready to go, you roll your dough out into 6-inch rounds (about a 1/4 inch thick) and fill with 2 Tbsp of filling. Crimp it shut and, if you’re not really vegan, smother with cheese. Manchego preferred.

I know people are going to stop believing me if I say this too often but this was hands down without a doubt 100% absolutely the best thing I have ever made… to date. And so we’re straight, going forward I’ll be keeping a check on such sweeping statements and will only use them if the item in question is, in fact, better than the reigning best thing ever. If you’d like to know where we stand:

What’s the best thing Katie has ever made?

Stew says: Tomato pie.

Katie says: I hate that tomato pie and am embarrassed it exists. I pick these empanadas. No contest.

What’s the best thing Stew has ever made?

Stew says: Dhansak.

Katie says: Scarpetta’s tomato and basil spaghetti.

We’ll keep you posted when a “best” gets booted…