What To Know
- Add the cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly and vent the tops of the empanadas with a small incision.
Empanadas, a culinary delight that tantalizes taste buds worldwide, are a perfect blend of flaky pastry and savory fillings. While pre-made empanadas are readily available, nothing compares to the satisfaction of crafting them from scratch. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the art of making homemade beef empanadas, ensuring your culinary endeavors result in golden-brown, flavor-packed masterpieces.
Gathering the Ingredients
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- Ice water
- For the beef filling:
- Ground beef
- Onion, chopped
- Bell pepper, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt and pepper
- Beef broth
- Other:
- Egg, for egg wash
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step 1: Creating the Dough
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix 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.
Step 2: Preparing the Beef Filling
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the filling has thickened.
Step 3: 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. Use a 4-inch circle cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Step 4: Baking the Empanadas
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Brush the empanadas with the egg wash.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Frying the Empanadas (Optional)
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serving Your Empanadas
Serve your homemade beef empanadas hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to culinary heaven.
Step 7: Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Answers to Your Questions
- Can I use other fillings in my empanadas?
Yes, you can experiment with various fillings, such as chicken, pork, seafood, or vegetables.
- How do I make sure the empanada dough is flaky?
Use cold butter and keep the dough cold throughout the process. Avoid overworking the dough.
- What is the best way to crimp empanadas?
Use a fork to press the edges together, or fold them over and pinch them closed.
- How can I prevent the empanadas from bursting open during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges tightly and vent the tops of the empanadas with a small incision.
- Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
