Galician empanada is much more than a dish: it’s a piece of Galicia wrapped in flaky bread dough. But with such a variety of fillings, the inevitable question arises: which one to choose?

Each filling has its own history, regional origin, and ideal moment. An empanada for a Sunday family meal is not the same as one for casual nibbles with friends or to honor Lenten tradition. In this guide we tell you everything you need to know about the seven classic Galician empanada fillings so you always make the right choice.

Zorza Empanada: The Flavor of Inland Galicia

Zorza—also called jijas or picadillo de chorizo in other regions—is pork marinated with paprika, garlic, and other spices. It’s the most representative filling of the inland regions, especially the Lugo mountains of Os Ancares, where pig slaughter has been the center of winter gastronomy for centuries.

Characteristics: Intense, spiced flavor. The aroma when baking is unmistakable and anticipates the experience before the first bite.

When to choose it: Perfect for cold days, hearty weekend meals, or when you’re looking for a bold flavor that transports you to inland Galicia. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate the traditional flavors of the pig slaughter.

Pork Empanada: The Classic That Never Fails

Pork empanada is probably the most universal of all. It’s present in practically all Galician regions and is the one many remember from family celebrations and festivities of their childhood.

Characteristics: Balanced flavor, less intense than zorza. The meat is combined with caramelized onion, paprika, and quality oil to achieve a juicy, aromatic filling.

When to choose it: It’s the safe option when there are varied tastes at the table. Works for any occasion: a casual meal, a birthday, a cold summer dinner, or as part of a tapas menu.

Tuna empanada: The most popular throughout Spain

If there’s one Galician empanada that has conquered the rest of the peninsula, it’s tuna. Its marine yet mild flavor makes it the perfect gateway for those approaching Galician empanada for the first time.

Characteristics: Tuna filling with caramelized onion and paprika that adds color and a smoky touch. It’s a representative dish of the Atlantic Diet, rich in protein and omega-3.

When to choose it: Ideal for any time of day: from a continental breakfast to a light dinner. Works very well in cold buffets, as office lunch, or at an informal brunch. It’s also an excellent option if you’re looking for a filling that pleases the whole family, including children.

Cod Empanada: Coastal and Lenten Tradition

Cod has been a fundamental ingredient in Galician cuisine for centuries, especially in coastal regions. Its presence in empanada also has important cultural significance: it has traditionally been the chosen filling for days of abstinence and Lent.

Characteristics: Intense, characteristic marine flavor. The combination with caramelized onion balances the strength of the cod and provides just the right moisture to the filling.

When to choose it: It’s the natural choice for Holy Week and days of abstinence, but also for any occasion when you’re looking for a substantial marine flavor. Perfect as a cold appetizer, in a buffet, or as a takeaway meal alternative.

Cod with Raisins Empanada: The Sweet-Savory Contrast

This cod variant incorporates raisins into the filling, creating a sweet-savory contrast very characteristic of certain Galician regions. It’s a recipe with centuries of history that surprises first-time tasters.

Characteristics: The sweet touch of raisins softens the intensity of the cod and creates a unique flavor combination. Like the classic version, it’s linked to Lent and abstinence menus.

When to choose it: Ideal when you want to surprise your guests with something different yet traditional. Works especially well at celebrations, tasting menus, or as part of a brunch. It’s also perfect for a picnic set or even as a pilgrim menu on the Camino de Santiago.

Xoubas Empanada: Authentic Galician Sea Flavor

Xoubas—small sardines—are one of the most iconic fish of the Galician coast. This empanada represents seafaring tradition in its most authentic version: fresh fish from the market, hand-cleaned and placed fillet by fillet inside the dough.

Characteristics: Pronounced marine flavor, with all the nutritional benefits of oily fish: protein and omega-3. The caramelized onion with paprika complements the fish without masking its flavor.

When to choose it: For those seeking the most authentic flavor of the Galician sea. It’s an excellent option as an elegant appetizer, in a healthy brunch, or as part of a tasting menu. Especially recommended for oily fish lovers who appreciate its intense flavor.

Cockle Empanada: The Most Representative Shellfish

Galician cockles, especially those from the Muros-Noia and Arousa rías, are considered among the best in the world. Taking them to an empanada is turning a luxury product into an accessible bite that maintains all its marine essence.

Characteristics: Intense, authentic sea flavor. The caramelized onion and hand-sealed dough ensure each portion is juicy and aromatic.

When to choose it: This is the empanada for special occasions: a celebration, an elegant appetizer when you have guests, or when you simply want to treat yourself. It also works very well as part of the pilgrim menu for those walking the Camino de Santiago who want to taste the best of Galician gastronomy.

Quick Guide: Which Empanada to Choose According to Occasion

Beyond the Classics: Other Empanadas to Discover

If you already know the traditional fillings and want to explore new flavors, at Costumes we also make other varieties that combine tradition and innovation: chicken with mushrooms, cured beef with goat cheese and caramelized onion, cuttlefish in its ink, mussels, scallops, octopus, and a vegan vegetable option.

All of them made with the same artisanal care: flaky bread dough with non-additive flours, onion caramelized and peeled daily in our workshop, and hand-sealing that leaves that characteristic thin edge.

Find Your Favorite Galician Empanada

Whatever the occasion, there’s a Galician empanada waiting for you. If you want to know more about our artisanal preparations or have any questions, contact us and we’ll help you choose.