How To Make Spanish Beef Empanadas – A Delicious And Authentic Recipe!

Embark on a culinary adventure with our comprehensive guide on how to make Spanish beef empanadas. These savory pastries, a staple in Spanish cuisine, offer a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. With our step-by-step instructions, you’ll master the art of crafting these delectable treats from the comfort of your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the butter cubes and use your fingers to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg and ice water and mix until the dough just comes together.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Beef Filling:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned.
3. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the beef broth and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the filling has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro.

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 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out circles of dough using a 4-inch cookie cutter.
4. Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork.
6. Brush the empanadas with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water).

Baking the Empanadas:

1. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• For flaky empanadas, use very cold butter and ice water.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
• If the dough is too dry, add a little more ice water.
• If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour.
• Make sure to seal the empanadas well to prevent the filling from leaking out.
• For a crispy crust, brush the empanadas with an egg wash before baking.

Variations

• Experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, pork, or vegetables.
• Add other spices to the filling, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder.
• Top the empanadas with shredded cheese before baking.
• Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Empanada Dipping Sauces

• Salsa: A classic choice that adds a spicy kick.
• Guacamole: A creamy and flavorful dip that complements the savory filling.
• Sour cream: A tangy and refreshing dip that balances out the richness of the empanadas.

Wrapping Up: A Culinary Masterpiece

Congratulations! You have now mastered the art of crafting delectable Spanish beef empanadas. These savory pastries are a testament to your culinary skills and will impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor every bite of these mouthwatering treats.

Top Questions Asked

1. How can I make the empanadas ahead of time?

• Assemble the empanadas and place them on a baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes.

2. Can I freeze the empanadas?

• Yes, unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

3. What is the best way to store empanadas?

• Store empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.