Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are delicious, flaky pastries filled with savory ingredients like beef, chicken, or vegetables. Perfect as appetizers or main dishes!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 cup ice water (adjust as needed)

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or chicken, or a mix of vegetables)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

• 1/2 cup grated carrots

• 1/2 cup diced potatoes (optional)

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, like cheddar or mozzarella)

For Assembling:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.

2. Cut in Butter:

   • Add the cold, cut-up butter to the flour. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add Wet Ingredients:

   • In a small bowl, beat the egg and mix with ice water.

   • Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together. You may need to add a bit more ice water if the dough is too dry.

4. Chill the Dough:

   • Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Meat and Vegetables:

   • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until softened.

   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add Vegetables and Spices:

   • Add bell peppers, peas, carrots, and potatoes (if using). Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.

   • Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

   • Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley and cheese if using. Let the filling cool.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

1. Roll Out Dough:

   • On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.

   • Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass (about 4-5 inches in diameter).

2. Fill the Empanadas:

   • Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.

   • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.

   • Press the edges together, then use a fork to crimp and seal the edges.

3. Apply Egg Wash:

   • Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over each empanada.

4. Bake the Empanadas:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake:

   • Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

3. Cool and Serve:

   • Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade empanadas! These flaky pastries are perfect for any occasion and can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients to suit your taste.