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Beef Empanadas

Beef Empanadas

250kcal
Prep 30 minutes
Cook 40 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total 1 hour 40 minutes
Enjoy these delicious Beef Empanadas, a comforting meal bursting with flavor and versatility.
Servings 6 empanadas
Course Lunch
Cuisine Latin American

Ingredients

Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour The foundation for a flaky, golden crust.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor of your dough.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Cold and cubed for tenderness.
  • 1 large egg Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
  • 1/4 cup cold water Adjust as needed to bring the dough together.
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar Optional secret ingredient for tenderness.
Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef The star ingredient that brings hearty flavor.
  • 1 small onion Finely chopped to sweeten and enrich the filling.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic flavor.
  • 1/2 bell pepper bell pepper Finely chopped for sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Provides a hint of smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to preferred spice level.
  • salt and pepper Season to taste.
  • 1/4 cup olives Chopped, optional for added brininess.
  • 1/4 cup raisins Optional for a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 egg beaten egg For egg wash to create a golden finish.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter
  • Skillet
  • Rolling Pin
  • cookie cutter
  • Baking sheet

Method

Dough Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently to ensure even distribution.
  2. Toss in 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of cold water, and 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
  4. Gradually add your egg mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Filling Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 finely chopped bell pepper. Sauté until veggies are soft.
  3. Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, along with salt and pepper.
  4. If using, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped olives and 1/4 cup of raisins. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes and remove from heat.
Assembling Empanadas
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut out circles.
  3. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold over and seal.
  4. Arrange on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Serving
  1. Enjoy your empanadas with a dipping sauce or salsa!

Nutrition

Serving1empanadaCalories250kcalCarbohydrates30gProtein12gFat12gSaturated Fat5gPolyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat5gCholesterol60mgSodium230mgPotassium200mgFiber2gSugar1gVitamin A500IUVitamin C10mgCalcium20mgIron2mg

Notes

For added freshness, serve with a sprinkle of cilantro.

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