Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced tomato
- 1/2 cup cooked ground beef
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg, beaten
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Frying pan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold water until the dough forms a ball. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, tomato, and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned. Add the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano. Stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles with a 3-inch cookie cutter.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto the center of each circle. Top with a sprinkle of cheese.
6. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Place the empanadas onto a greased baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes 12 empanadas
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken.
- For the cheese, you can use any type of shredded cheese.
- For the vegetable oil, you can use olive oil or coconut oil.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add more vegetables.
- For a spicy version, add more chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the beef mixture is completely cooled before adding it to the empanadas.
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it forms a ball.
Storage Instructions:
Empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Empanadas can be served with a side of salsa or guacamole.
Garnishes:
Empanadas can be garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
Pairings:
Empanadas pair well with a side of refried beans or Spanish rice.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Refried beans
- Spanish rice
- Salad
- Guacamole
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the empanadas are not sealing properly, wet your fingers with a little water and press the edges together.
- If the empanadas are too dry, add a tablespoon of water to the filling before adding it to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the beef mixture is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before adding it to the empanadas.
- Make sure the empanadas are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Food History:
Empanadas are a traditional dish from Spain and Latin America. They have been around for centuries and are a popular snack or appetizer.
Flavor Profiles:
Empanadas have a savory flavor with hints of garlic, cumin, and oregano.
Serving Suggestions:
Empanadas can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish. They can also be served with a side of salsa or guacamole.
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Region: Spanish