Beef Empanadas

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Introduction:

Discover the irresistible taste of Beef Empanadas with our easy-to-follow recipe. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a savory beef mixture and make a perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting meal, beef empanadas offer a deliciously satisfying option that’s sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients:

  • For the Dough:
    • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
    • 1 large egg
    • ¼ cup cold water (or as needed)
  • For the Filling:
    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • ½ teaspoon chili powder
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
    • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and gradually add cold water until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Make the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Cook until well combined. Let cool.
  3. Assemble the Empanadas: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Brush with beaten egg.
  4. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  5. Serve: Enjoy warm, straight from the oven, or let cool and serve at room temperature.

    Serving and Storage Tips for Beef Empanadas:

    Serving Tips:

    • Serve Warm: Beef empanadas are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. This ensures the pastry remains crisp and the filling is at its most flavorful.
    • Accompaniments: Serve empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces or sides, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or a tangy chimichurri. A fresh salad or a side of rice can also complement the meal nicely.
    • Presentation: Arrange empanadas on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an attractive presentation. You can also serve them with lemon or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
    • Portion Size: Empanadas can be served as appetizers, snacks, or as a main dish. Consider the size of your empanadas and how many you plan to serve, ensuring that each guest gets enough to enjoy.

    Storage Tips:

    • Refrigeration: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to restore their crispiness.
    • Freezing: To freeze, place cooled empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
    • Reheating: Reheat empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, reheat on a wire rack to keep the pastry crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the pastry soggy.
    • Defrosting: If you’re reheating frozen empanadas, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before baking, or bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

    Variations for Beef Empanadas:

    1. Spicy Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Introduces a spicy kick to the savory beef filling, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
    2. Cheesy Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Mix 1 cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend) into the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Adds a creamy, cheesy element that melts beautifully inside the empanada.
    3. Vegetarian Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and onions, or use a meat substitute like lentils or tofu.
      • Flavor Profile: Provides a hearty, satisfying vegetarian option with a similar texture and flavor profile.
    4. Southwestern Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Incorporate 1 cup of black beans, corn, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Adds a southwestern flair with a blend of beans and corn for added texture and flavor.
    5. Greek Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Mix 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1/4 cup chopped black olives into the beef filling, and add a pinch of dried oregano.
      • Flavor Profile: Offers a Mediterranean twist with tangy feta and briny olives, complemented by herby oregano.
    6. Mexican Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Add 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning or a combination of cumin, chili powder, and coriander to the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Enhances the filling with Mexican spices for a flavorful, zesty option.
    7. BBQ Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Mix 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce into the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Provides a smoky, tangy flavor that complements the beef and adds a hint of sweetness.
    8. Caribbean Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon allspice, 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, and 1/2 cup chopped pineapple into the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Adds a tropical and spicy twist, with aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness from the pineapple.
    9. Sausage and Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Replace half of the ground beef with ground sausage for a richer flavor.
      • Flavor Profile: Adds a savory depth with the spices and fat from the sausage.
    10. Pork and Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Use a mix of ground pork and ground beef for a combination of flavors.
      • Flavor Profile: Creates a more complex flavor profile with the blend of beef and pork.
    11. Spinach and Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of cooked spinach (squeezed dry) to the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Adds a nutrient-rich element with the mild, earthy flavor of spinach.
    12. Asian Beef Empanadas
      • Ingredients: Mix in 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger into the beef filling.
      • Flavor Profile: Introduces savory and slightly sweet Asian flavors to the empanadas.

    Conclusion:

    Our Beef Empanadas recipe delivers a delightful combination of savory beef filling and crisp, flaky pastry. Perfect for any occasion, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this classic dish, whether as a tasty snack or a hearty meal.

    FAQ’s About Beef Empanadas:

    1. Can I use store-bought dough for empanadas?
      • Answer: Yes, you can use store-bought empanada dough or pie crust as a convenient alternative to homemade dough. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for handling and baking.
    2. What type of beef is best for empanadas?
      • Answer: Ground beef is typically used for empanadas. Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. You can also use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor.
    3. Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
      • Answer: Yes, you can prepare and assemble empanadas ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. They can also be frozen and baked later.
    4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
      • Answer: Ensure that the edges of the dough are well-sealed by pressing down with a fork or using a crimping tool. Avoid overfilling, as this can cause leakage during baking.
    5. What’s the best way to reheat leftover empanadas?
      • Answer: Reheat empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
    6. Can I freeze empanadas before baking?
      • Answer: Yes, you can freeze assembled, unbaked empanadas. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
    7. How can I make empanadas healthier?
      • Answer: Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. You can also incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the filling for added nutrients.
    8. What are some good dipping sauces for empanadas?
      • Answer: Popular dipping sauces include salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or a tangy chimichurri. You can also serve them with a side of hot sauce for extra flavor.
    9. How do I ensure the empanada dough is flaky?
      • Answer: Keep the dough cold and work quickly to prevent it from becoming too warm. Use chilled butter or shortening and avoid overworking the dough.
    10. Can I bake empanadas instead of frying them?
      • Answer: Yes, baking empanadas is a healthier alternative to frying. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

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