Tucson Weekly Sept. '08
BEST EMPANADAS
Up until Mamma Llama's opened in 2001, the empanada was almost exclusively the domain of the Mexican breakfast pastry and dessert family. With the advent of Mamma Llama's gourmet empanada, however, that has forever changed. In short, their empanadas are huge and a meal unto themselves. A single one can lay waste to the mightiest of appetites. Their artichoke and spinach varieties were recently inducted into the Vegetarian Hall of Fame (Non-vegan Wing), while their chicken, beef and pork offerings are always champions. In addition to their walk-in business, which includes frozen "take and bakes", Mamma Llama's will lay out an impressive all-star lineup for your catered event.
Tucson
Lifestyle
When Kris Masalsky and Vicki Sims started talking at their children's
swim meets, they soon discovered they had both traveled to South
America and they both loved empanadas. For those who have never
enjoyed these delicious treats, they are single-serving turnovers -- a pastry
crust with savory or sweet filling. The name comes from the Spanish
word empanar - to bake in pastry. This was the beginning of a beautiful
friendship. Today, the business partners have developed a reputation for
producing the best empanadas around. With assistance of family and
friends, their fledgling business is expanding continually. These empana-
da queens are delightfully engaging, and patrons soon discover that they
create their flavorful pillows with a passion.
Many of the most successful catering events in town have featured
their specialty empanadas. Everyone seems to love them and is
delighted by the array of choices. Menu features include The Brazilian,
filled with pork, apricots, raisins and pine nuts. It is one of the most
popular items on the menu, but is definitely matched by the Ecuador's
Delight, a delightful blend of spinach, feta cheese and black olives. I
thought the Viva Argentina was sensational, with a combination of
beef, tomatoes, green olives, raisins and exotic spices. Do not forget
the dessert empanaditas...
Party platters are available, as well as frozen empanadas for the "Take
& Bake" Crowd. I suggest you call ahead to order what
you would like...
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