Empanadas

Why Make This Recipe

Empanadas are a delightful treat that you can enjoy as a snack, lunch, or dinner. They’re fun to make and can be filled with many different ingredients. This recipe celebrates the traditional beef filling, which is savory and satisfying. Making empanadas at home gives you the freedom to customize flavors to suit your taste, and they are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

How to Make Empanadas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1/3 cup ice water
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the flour and cold butter, mixing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add the ice water to form a dough, then wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
4. While the dough chills, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper until softened.
5. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until well mixed and heated through.
6. On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut it into circles.
7. Place a portion of the beef mixture onto the center of each circle, fold the dough over, and press the edges with a fork to seal.
8. Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

How to Serve Empanadas

Empanadas are best served warm. You can dip them in salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor. They also pair nicely with a simple salad or some seasoned rice. Serve them as a finger food at parties or enjoy them as a meal at home.

How to Store Empanadas

If you have leftovers, you can store empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. If you want to freeze them, you can do so before baking. Just place the unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months.

Tips to Make Empanadas

• Make sure your butter is cold to get a flaky dough.
• Don’t rush chilling the dough; it helps to rest and toughen, making it easier to roll out.
• Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, cheese, or vegetables.
• For extra crispy empanadas, you can fry them instead of baking.

Variation

You can vary the filling by using shredded chicken, beans, cheese, or a mixture of vegetables. Each variation can bring a new flavor and texture to your empanadas.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before using it.

Can empanadas be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking empanadas is a healthier option, and they turn out delicious and crispy.

What dips go well with empanadas?
Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are great choices. You can also try chimichurri sauce for a fresh twist!