Beef Empanadas

Beef empanadas are a delightful culinary creation that brings joy to many around the world. These savory pastries are often filled with seasoned ground beef and various vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, buttery dough. Originating from Latin America, empanadas are beloved for their crispy exterior and flavorful filling. They serve as a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a main course, making them versatile for any occasion. You’ll find them at family gatherings, festive celebrations, and street food stalls, where they’re enjoyed by everyone, young and old. If you desire a comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor, making beef empanadas is a fabulous choice.

The preparation may take some time but the resulting aroma and taste are well worth it. The flaky dough combined with the spiced filling creates a mouthwatering experience that few can resist. When baked to a golden brown, these empanadas present an inviting sight that beckons you to take a bite. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some homemade beef empanadas that will have everyone asking for more!

Ingredients about Beef Empanadas

List of ingredients with measurements

To create these delicious beef empanadas, here are the necessary ingredients you will need:

• 1 cup water
• 1 1/2 sticks (170 grams) unsalted butter
• 2 3/4 cups (349 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Pinch of paprika
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound ground beef (85-90% lean)
• 1 small yellow onion (peeled and minced)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (cored, seeded, and finely diced)
• 1/2 green bell pepper (cored, seeded, and finely diced)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste (to preference)
• 1 small russet potato (peeled, finely diced, and boiled)
• 3 scallions (trimmed and chopped)
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 3 tablespoons water (for egg wash)

Optional ingredient substitutions

You can customize your beef empanadas by making a few substitutions:

• For a lighter dough, consider using a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour.
• Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a leaner option.
• Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried ones for a burst of freshness.
• If you don’t have beef broth, vegetable broth works perfectly.
• Add or swap different vegetables in the filling, like corn, carrots, or mushrooms, according to your taste.

How to Make Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by making the dough. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the water and butter. Heat until the butter is fully melted. While the butter is melting, whisk together the flour, salt, and a pinch of paprika in a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Once the butter mixture is ready, pour a little into the well you created and mix until you form a paste. Gradually pour in the remaining melted butter mixture and stir until you achieve a wet, oily dough.

Next, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This resting period is essential as it allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Making the Filling

Once your dough has rested, it’s time to make the filling. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until it is browned. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet, reserving the drippings in the pan.

In the same skillet with the reserved drippings, add diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, add the diced red and green bell peppers along with the frozen peas, garlic, and all the spices: oregano, salt, paprika, red pepper flakes, white pepper, and cumin. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Then, deglaze the pan with beef broth and add in the tomato paste, stirring to combine. Finally, return the browned beef and boiled potatoes to the skillet. Mix everything together until well combined, then remove the mixture from heat. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the dough.

Step 3: Assembling the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and tear off pieces that are about the size of a golf ball. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.

Place a tablespoon or two of the filling in the center of each dough circle. If using cheese, sprinkle some shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese on top of the filling, along with a sprinkle of chopped scallions for extra flavor. Brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash (made by whisking together 1 egg and 3 tablespoons of water) to help seal the empanadas.

Step 4: Baking the Empanadas

Fold the dough over to create a semi-circle encasing the filling. Use a fork to press down along the edges to ensure they are sealed tightly. Place the prepared empanadas on the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash to give them a lovely golden color while baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Beef Empanadas

Best ways to serve Beef Empanadas

Beef empanadas are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Their crispy exterior and flavorful filling make them ideal for a snack or light meal. They are also great for sharing at gatherings. Serve them fresh, and watch how quickly they disappear!

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pair your empanadas with a side of chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole for dipping. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the empanadas and balance the meal. For a refreshing drink, options like homemade lemonade, iced tea, or a light beer pair wonderfully with this dish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro over the empanadas can enhance the flavor profile as well!

How to Store Beef Empanadas

Proper storage methods

To store leftover beef empanadas, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they are separated by parchment paper or stored in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together.

Tips for reheating or freezing

To reheat, place the empanadas in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help retain the crispiness of the dough. If you want to freeze them, allow the cooked empanadas to cool completely, then pack them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, there’s no need to thaw—just bake them directly from the freezer, extending the baking time by a few minutes.

Tips to Make Beef Empanadas

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making empanadas is overfilling them. Be sure to leave enough space around the edges of the dough when placing the filling, as this will help seal the empanadas properly. Additionally, not sealing the edges tightly can cause the filling to leak out during baking, so use a fork to crimp the edges securely.

Helpful tips for better results

To make your empanadas even more flavorful, consider marinating the beef with some spices before cooking. Experimenting with different types of cheese can also add variety to the filling. Lastly, don’t rush the resting time for the dough; allowing it to rest in the refrigerator helps yield a better texture.

Variation of Beef Empanadas

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

While the classic beef empanadas are delicious, there are plenty of variations to try. You can incorporate different meats, such as shredded chicken or pulled pork, or even create a vegetarian version using mushrooms, spinach, or lentils. Adding spices like curry or cumin can give the filling an international twist, infusing different scent and flavor profiles into your empanadas.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you want to make them dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter alternative and skip the cheese altogether or replace it with a dairy-free cheese variant.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your empanadas are not turning out as expected, there could be various reasons. If the dough is too dry or crumbly, you may need to add a bit more butter or water to help it come together. If the filling lacks flavor, consider adjusting your seasonings. Take your time to taste the filling before assembling to ensure it meets your expectations.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! One of the great things about empanadas is that you can prepare them ahead of time. You can make the dough and filling in advance, then assemble and bake them just before serving. If you prefer to freeze them, you can assemble the empanadas without baking them and freeze them before cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if baking them from frozen.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can substitute many ingredients based on availability and taste. If you don’t have ground beef, use ground turkey or a vegetarian option like lentils or beans. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones depending on what you have on hand. If you’re out of certain vegetables, improvising with seasonal options works well too; just ensure that the flavors complement each other.

Making beef empanadas at home can elevate your cooking game and provide a comfort food that resonates with many cultures. They not only taste amazing but also offer a fun cooking experience to enjoy with family or friends. These golden pockets of joy are sure to make any meal memorable, so get creative and enjoy every step of the process!

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