Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Empanada mold or large cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion, red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut circles using an empanada mold or large cookie cutter.
6. Spoon a tablespoon of the beef mixture onto each circle. Fold the dough over and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
7. Brush each empanada with beaten egg and place on a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12 empanadas
Nutritional information:
Calories: 210
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground chicken or turkey.
- Red bell pepper can be substituted with green bell pepper or jalapeño pepper.
Variations:
- Add chopped olives or raisins to the beef mixture for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Use different spices such as chili powder, oregano, or garlic powder for a different flavor profile.
- Add cheese to the beef mixture for a cheesy empanada.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is chilled and cubed for the dough to come out flaky.
- Don't overfill the empanadas to prevent them from bursting open.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas to ensure they are sealed properly.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat empanadas in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve empanadas on a platter with a side of salsa or guacamole.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.
- Pair with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish rice
- Refried beans
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the empanadas are leaking, make sure the edges are crimped properly.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Empanadas originated in Spain and were brought to Latin America by Spanish colonizers. They are now a popular street food in many Latin American countries.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly spicy, and buttery.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish.
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Region: Argentinean