Empanadas

Why Make This Recipe

Empanadas are delicious and versatile pastries that can be filled with various ingredients. They are perfect for parties, snacks, or even a main meal. Making empanadas at home allows you to customize the fillings to suit your taste, ensuring a satisfying dish every time. Plus, they are fun to make and 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 it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add the ice water to form a dough. Once mixed, 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 to the skillet and cook until browned.
6. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until well mixed and heated through.
7. On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut it into circles.
8. 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.
9. Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Serve warm with dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

How to Serve Empanadas

Empanadas can be served hot or warm. They pair well with a variety of dips such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or rice for a more complete meal. Enjoy them as finger food or as part of a larger spread during gatherings.

How to Store Empanadas

To store empanadas, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing them. Seal them in a freezer bag or container, and they will last for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Tips to Make Empanadas

• Ensure the butter is cold when mixing with the flour; this helps create a flaky crust.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas to prevent them from bursting during baking.
• Use a fork to seal the edges tightly for a good seal.
• Experiment with different fillings like chicken, cheese, or vegetables for variety.

Variation

You can easily switch the filling of empanadas. Instead of ground beef, try ground chicken, lentils, or cheese. Adding herbs such as cilantro or spices can also enhance the flavor and make them unique.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare empanadas in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the empanadas, fill them, and then freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.

Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?
A: You can use ground chicken, turkey, vegetables, or even beans for a vegetarian option.

Q: How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
A: Empanadas are done when they are golden brown. You can also check the bottom; it should be firm and slightly browned.