Beef empanadas

Introduction:
Beef empanadas are a beloved dish across many cultures, offering a delightful blend of savory flavors wrapped in a flaky pastry shell. Originating from Spain and Portugal, these hand-held turnovers have found their way into kitchens worldwide, each region adding its unique twist to the recipe. In this article, we’ll explore a classic beef empanadas recipe that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

For the Filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

Instructions:

this recipe
  1. Prepare the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter, and using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  1. Make the Filling:
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped olives, hard-boiled eggs, and raisins (if using). Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
  1. Assemble the Empanadas:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a small plate, cut out circles of dough, re-rolling scraps as needed.
  • Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  • Transfer the assembled empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.
  1. Bake and Serve:
  • Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Allow the empanadas to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa on the side.

Conclusion:
Beef empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a tasty appetizer for parties, or a satisfying snack any time of day. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the flavors of Latin America right into your kitchen and embark on a culinary journey that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor the irresistible taste of homemade beef empanadas!

Serving Tips:

  1. Dipping Sauces: Serve beef empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces such as chimichurri, salsa verde, or a simple tomato salsa to add extra flavor.
  2. Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the empanadas just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Accompaniments: Pair beef empanadas with a side salad, rice and beans, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.
  4. Party Platter: Arrange the empanadas on a platter with colorful garnishes for a stunning presentation at parties or gatherings.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover beef empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Freezing: To freeze unbaked empanadas, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  3. Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or frozen empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
  4. Make-Ahead: Prepare the empanadas up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This allows for easy meal prep and a freshly baked treat whenever you desire.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your beef empanadas stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes. Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a festive gathering, these delicious hand-held treats are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!

  1. Can I use store-bought dough for making beef empanadas?
  • Absolutely! While homemade dough adds a special touch, you can certainly use store-bought empanada dough or even puff pastry for convenience. Just follow the instructions on the package for best results.
  1. Can I make beef empanadas ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can prepare the beef filling and dough ahead of time and assemble the empanadas just before baking. Alternatively, you can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them until ready to bake. They also freeze well, allowing you to have homemade empanadas on hand whenever you crave them.
  1. What are some vegetarian alternatives for the beef filling?
  • If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground beef with ingredients like sautéed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms), beans (such as black beans or lentils), or a combination of cheese and spinach. Season the filling with your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor.
  1. How do I prevent my empanadas from becoming soggy?
  • To prevent soggy empanadas, make sure the filling is not too wet. Cook any vegetables until they release their moisture, and drain excess liquid from cooked meats before adding them to the filling. Additionally, avoid overfilling the empanadas, as too much filling can lead to leaks during baking. Finally, bake the empanadas on a preheated baking sheet or stone to ensure a crispy crust.

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