Empanadas, beloved across Latin America and Spain, are delightful pastry pockets filled with an array of savory ingredients like beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables, and then baked or fried to a golden perfection. These handheld treats are not only delicious but also a versatile dish suitable for many occasions. In this guide, you'll discover a detailed recipe for crafting your empanadas, along with some tips and tricks to elevate your culinary skills.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
1 egg
1/3 cup ice water
For the Filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves of garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup green olives (pitted and sliced)
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.In a small bowl, whisk the egg and ice water together. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Filling: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and sauté until the onions are soft.Stir in the olives and raisins, then remove the mixture from heat and let it cool.
Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter to make dough circles.Fill each dough circle with a spoonful of the beef mixture, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
Bake the Empanadas: Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with an egg wash for a golden finish.Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
Tips and Tricks:
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your empanada fillings by trying different combinations of meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
Seal the Edges Properly: To prevent the filling from spilling out during baking, make sure to seal the edges of the empanadas securely.
Serve with Sauces: Empanadas pair wonderfully with sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or aioli for an extra burst of flavors.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of making empanadas is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a delicious and versatile dish to enjoy with family and friends. By following this guide, you can impress your guests with perfectly crafted pastry pockets that are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative with fillings, and treat yourself to the crispy goodness of homemade empanadas!
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