What To Know
- Among the most beloved variations are ground beef empanadas, a symphony of flavors that combines the richness of ground beef with the flaky goodness of dough.
- If you’re eager to embark on a culinary adventure and create these mouthwatering treats at home, follow our comprehensive guide on how to make ground beef empanadas.
- Add the butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Empanadas, those delectable pastries filled with savory or sweet fillings, have long tantalized taste buds worldwide. Among the most beloved variations are ground beef empanadas, a symphony of flavors that combines the richness of ground beef with the flaky goodness of dough. If you’re eager to embark on a culinary adventure and create these mouthwatering treats at home, follow our comprehensive guide on how to make ground beef empanadas.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened and the spices are fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce and cilantro. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Assembling the Empanadas:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out circles of dough using a 4-inch cookie cutter.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Baking the Empanadas:
1. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash over the empanadas.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Empanadas:
- For a flaky dough, keep the butter and water cold.
- Do not overmix the dough, as this will make it tough.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more ice water one tablespoon at a time.
- If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour one tablespoon at a time.
- To prevent the empanadas from bursting, make sure the edges are sealed tightly.
- Serve the empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations:
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Add other vegetables to the filling, such as chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas.
- Top the empanadas with shredded cheese before baking.
- Bake the empanadas on a hot grill for a smoky flavor.
Culinary Conclusion:
Mastering the art of ground beef empanadas is a culinary journey that rewards you with delectable treats. By following our step-by-step guide and experimenting with different variations, you can create these savory pastries that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, ignite your culinary passion, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, bring them to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the empanadas?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked or unbaked empanadas. To freeze unbaked empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour, or until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze baked empanadas, let them cool completely and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: What is the best dipping sauce for empanadas?
A: Empanadas can be paired with various dipping sauces, such as tomato sauce, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Choose the sauce that complements the flavors of your empanadas.
