Introduction
Empanadas are a beloved Argentine dish, consisting of dough pockets filled with a variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, cheese, and vegetables. They can be baked or fried, making them versatile and perfect for any occasion. These savory pastries are often served as appetizers or snacks and are popular at gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olives, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and gradually mix in the cold water until a dough forms. Knead lightly for a few minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Make the filling:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in olives and hard-boiled eggs if using. Let cool.
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Assemble the empanadas:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil for frying.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a large cookie cutter or glass.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
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Cook the empanadas:
- For baking: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash (1 beaten egg) for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- For frying: Carefully drop the empanadas in hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Health Notes
- Empanadas can be high in calories and fat, especially when fried. Consider baking them for a healthier option.
- For a lighter filling, use lean ground meat or substitute with vegetables and cheese.
Enjoying the Dish
- Serve empanadas warm with chimichurri sauce or salsa for dipping. They make a great addition to parties or as a snack during gatherings!
Tips
- Dough variations: Experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat or corn flour, for unique flavors.
- Filling options: Feel free to get creative with fillings, using chicken, cheese, spinach, or even sweet fillings for dessert empanadas.
- Freezing: Empanadas can be made ahead and frozen before baking or frying. Just bake or fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
