Delicious Empanada de Carne (Beef Empanada) Recipe
Welcome to the world of culinary delights with our tasty recipe for Empanada de Carne, or Beef Empanada. This delicious dish is an important part of Latin American cuisine, loved by many for its flaky crust and savory filling. Historically, empanadas originated in Spain but have traveled far and wide, adapting to different cultures and local flavors along the way. Today, they are popular across countries like Argentina, Colombia, and Chile, making them a beloved snack or meal option worldwide.
What makes this recipe so appealing is that you can enjoy it in different ways! Serve it as an appetizer, a quick lunch, or even a tasty dinner. It’s fun to eat, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground beef | 1 pound |
Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
Bell pepper (chopped) | 1 small |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | to taste |
Pepper | to taste |
Empanada dough | 1 package (store-bought or homemade) |
Egg (beaten for egg wash) | 1 |
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or try adding olives or hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat with a spoon while cooking.
- Season the mixture: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the empanadas: Roll out the empanada dough on a floured surface. Cut the dough into circles, about 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Fill the empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.
- Seal the dough: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
- Brush with egg wash: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving!
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
---|---|---|
Calories | 320 | 16% |
Protein | 18g | 36% |
Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
Fats | 15g | 23% |
Sodium | 350mg | 15% |
Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- For a crunchier texture, you can bake at a higher temperature for the last few minutes.
- Experiment with different spices like oregano or chili powder for added flavor!
- Make sure to seal the empanadas well to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Don’t skip the egg wash – it gives the empanadas a beautiful golden color.
FAQs
What can I serve with empanadas?
You can serve Empanada de Carne with dipping sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole. A fresh salad also pairs well!
Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked empanadas before baking. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.
How do I reheat empanadas?
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I make empanada dough from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can be made using flour, salt, water, and butter. It can enhance the flavor and texture of your empanadas.
What are some variations of empanadas?
You can fill empanadas with various ingredients such as chicken, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruit. The possibilities are endless!
Are empanadas healthy?
While they can be a bit indulgent, you can make them healthier by using lean meats or baking instead of frying.
How long does it take to make empanadas?
From preparation to baking, it generally takes about 1 hour to make empanadas.
Can I make empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time. Just assemble and bake them when you’re ready to eat!
What’s the best way to store leftover empanadas?
Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Are empanadas gluten-free?
Traditional empanada dough contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free dough recipes or store-bought versions as alternatives.
Now you’re ready to dive into the world of Empanada de Carne. Enjoy making this delicious recipe, and happy cooking!