Empanadas are a beloved Latin American staple with various fillings, and a beef empanada is a classic choice that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Let’s dive into this recipe that will guide you through making these delectable pockets of joy!
Ingredients:
- For the dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the beef filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Additional:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Begin with the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat the egg with cold water and gradually add it to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead gently on a floured surface. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, beef broth, and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then let the filling cool before stirring in olives and eggs.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out round disc shapes using a large cookie cutter or the rim of a bowl.
- Spoon a portion of the beef filling onto the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle, and press the edges with a fork to seal. Make sure to leave adequate space around the filling to prevent leakage.
- Place the formed empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
- Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, accompanied by salsa, chimichurri, or your favorite dipping sauce.
There you have it – a fantastic beef empanada recipe that’s sure to be a hit when you’re in need of something uniquely tasty and thoroughly satisfying. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!