Irresistible Empanadas Recipe: Flavorful Golden Treats

The aroma of freshly baked empanadas wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Each golden pocket bursts with flavors that dance on your palate, promising a delightful experience with every bite.

Picture this: gathering around the table with family and friends, laughter echoing as you all savor these delectable treats. Empanadas are not just food; they are memories waiting to be made, perfect for any occasion from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

I remember the first time I made empanadas; my friends declared me a culinary genius, and I basked in their admiration like a pop star at an award show.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the dough; it gives empanadas their perfect texture.

• Unsalted Butter: Cold butter creates a flaky crust, so keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it.

• Water: Ice-cold water helps bind the dough without making it tough; add gradually while mixing.

• Ground Beef (or Chicken): Choose lean meat for filling; it keeps the dish light yet satisfying.

• Onion: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully and add depth of flavor to the filling.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic makes everything better; it adds warmth and aroma to the filling.

• Spices (Cumin, Paprika): These spices elevate the flavor profile and give your empanadas that authentic kick.

• Egg Wash: A simple mixture of beaten egg brushed on top ensures a beautiful golden finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Create the Dough: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour and salt. Cut cold unsalted butter into small cubes and blend until crumbly. Gradually add ice-cold water until a soft dough forms.

Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it relaxes gluten for tender pastry.

Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic before adding ground beef or chicken.

Season It Up!: Sprinkle salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika into the meat mixture. Stir well and let simmer until fully cooked—your kitchen will smell divine!

Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out chilled dough until it’s approximately 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles about 4-5 inches in diameter.

Fill and Seal Them Up!: Place a spoonful of filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal securely—no filling should escape!

Now you’re ready to bake these beauties!

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Brush each empanada with egg wash for that gorgeous golden glow. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until perfectly golden brown.

Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before devouring them like they’re going out of style! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the filling first, then chill the dough while it rests. This ensures a tender crust that holds up during baking or frying.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap beef for chicken or veggies in your empanadas recipe. Adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika can add depth and excitement.

Storing & Reheating

Store cooked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness for best results.

Sharing laughter over my first batch of empanadas still makes me chuckle; they were so overstuffed, they looked like they were ready for a food marathon!

FAQ

Can I make empanada dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the dough for up to two days before using.

What are some popular fillings for empanadas?

Popular fillings include ground beef, cheese, vegetables, and even sweet options like fruit.

How do I know when my empanadas are done?

Empanadas are done when golden brown on top with a crispy texture; usually takes 20-25 minutes.

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Empanadas

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Empanadas are a delightful culinary treasure, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. These golden pockets are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, and spices, wrapped in a flaky crust that promises to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether served as appetizers or a main dish, these empanadas will create unforgettable memories and tantalize your taste buds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup ice-cold water
• 1 cup ground beef (or chicken)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Create the dough: Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Blend in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms.
2. Chill the dough: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare filling: Sauté onions in a skillet until translucent; add garlic and meat, cooking until browned. Season with spices.
4. Roll out dough: On a floured surface, roll chilled dough to 1/8 inch thick; cut into circles (4-5 inches).
5. Fill and seal: Place filling on one half of each circle; fold over and crimp edges with a fork.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush empanadas with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 empanada (85g)
• Calories: 225
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 31mg