The Empada, or Empadinha, is a beloved savory snack popular in both Portugal and Brazil. The term Empada is derived from empanada (also used in Spanish), which itself originates from the Latin word panis, meaning bread. Its closest interpretation is a delicate pastry filled with a savory filling—typically meat—enclosed with a pastry lid.

The Empada's origins likely trace back to Portuguese pastelões, large savory pies with diverse fillings, strongly influenced by medieval culinary traditions. These pies gained popularity as they served as convenient meals for adherents of the Catholic Church on days of abstinence from beef or pork. Today, in both Brazil and Portugal, chicken Empadas reign supreme, readily available in most cafés and supermarkets.

Empadas are crafted from rotten dough (a term for dough made with flour and fat, ideal for baking) and can feature a wide variety of fillings. Some popular options include beef, dried beef, poultry, curd cheese (catupiry), prawns, and hearts of palm, among others. These savory pastries have become a timeless snack, offering both tradition and versatility in every bite.