Ah, empanadas! These delightful savory pastries have a rich history that spans across continents, from Spain to Latin America and beyond. They’re a beloved comfort food in so many cultures, each one adding its own unique twist to the filling and dough. I still remember the first time I made empanadas with my grandmother. The kitchen was filled with laughter and the delicious aroma of spices—the perfect bonding moment! The best part? You can fill them with just about anything your heart desires! Trust me, once you take that first bite of a warm, flaky empanada, you’ll understand why they’re adored by so many. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Empanadas
To whip up these scrumptious empanadas, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened for a flakier dough
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to enhance the flavor
- 1/4 cup cold water, added gradually to bring the dough together
- 1 cup ground beef, cooked and seasoned
- 1/2 cup diced onions for a savory kick
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers, adding color and sweetness
- 1 teaspoon cumin for a warm, earthy flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika, giving a nice depth
- 1 egg, beaten, for brushing on top before baking
Feel free to get creative with your fillings, too! You can swap in your favorite ingredients to make these empanadas truly your own.
How to Prepare Empanadas
Making empanadas is a fun and rewarding process, and I promise it’s easier than it sounds! Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can enjoy these delicious bites in no time.
Making the Dough
Start by mixing the flour, softened butter, and salt in a large bowl. I like to use my hands for this—it helps to create that perfect flaky texture! Gradually add in the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Once it’s come together, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
Preparing the Filling
While the dough is resting, let’s prepare the filling. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Then, add in the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they’re soft—about 5 minutes. Season the mixture with cumin and paprika, stirring well to combine. Once everything is cooked through, let it cool for a few minutes before using it to fill your empanadas. Trust me, the aroma will have your mouth watering!
Assembling the Empanadas
Now comes the fun part! Roll out your rested dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of your beef filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for an extra touch and to ensure they’re well-sealed—nobody wants a leaking empanada!
Baking the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange your empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden-brown color. Bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and flaky. Oh, the smell will be irresistible! Once they’re done, let them cool slightly before digging in. Enjoy your homemade empanadas warm, and get ready for compliments!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously flaky pastry that melts in your mouth
- Endless filling possibilities to suit any taste
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or a cozy meal
- Simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- Great for meal prep—freeze before baking for later
- Fun activity to share with family or friends
- Golden-brown finish that’s sure to impress
Trust me, once you make these empanadas, they’ll become a regular in your cooking rotation!
Tips for Success
To ensure your empanadas turn out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the resting time for the dough—this is key for that flaky texture. If the dough feels too sticky, dust your surface with a bit more flour while rolling it out. When sealing the edges, make sure to press firmly to avoid any leaks during baking. And remember, you can always brush the tops with extra egg wash for a deeper golden color. Lastly, keep an eye on them as they bake; every oven is different, and you want that perfect golden finish!
Nutritional Information
Each empanada is estimated to contain around 250 calories, with 15 grams of fat and 10 grams of protein. You’ll also find about 20 grams of carbohydrates and just 1 gram of sugar. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so they might vary slightly based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your tasty treats while keeping an eye on those numbers!
FAQ About Empanadas
Can I freeze empanadas?
Absolutely! You can freeze empanadas both before and after baking. If you choose to freeze them before baking, simply assemble the empanadas, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you’ve baked them already, just let them cool completely before freezing, then reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
What are some popular fillings?
The beauty of empanadas is their versatility! Traditional fillings often include seasoned ground beef, chicken, or pork, but you can get super creative. Try adding cheese and spinach for a vegetarian option, or even go sweet with a mixture of apples and cinnamon for dessert empanadas! Other popular fillings include black beans, corn, and cheese, or a mix of sautéed vegetables. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment with your favorites!
How do I know when empanadas are done?
You’ll know your empanadas are done when they turn a beautiful golden brown color and have a nice, flaky texture. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; the aroma will be heavenly! When you gently tap the top, it should feel firm and not soft or doughy. If you’re unsure, you can always cut one open to check that the filling is hot and cooked through. Trust me, you’ll want to catch that perfect moment just before they come out of the oven!
Serving Suggestions
Empanadas are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and sauces can take them to the next level! I love serving them with a zesty salsa or a fresh chimichurri for that extra burst of flavor. A scoop of creamy guacamole or a dollop of sour cream can also add a delightful richness. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad on the side, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the savory empanadas. Trust me, these little touches will make your empanada experience even more enjoyable!
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Empanadas: 7 Irresistible Steps to Flaky Perfection
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Empanadas are savory pastries filled with a variety of ingredients. They are popular in many cultures.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 cup ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, butter, and salt.
- Add cold water gradually until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef, onions, and bell peppers.
- Season with cumin and paprika, then let it cool.
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles.
- Place filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges.
- Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Use any filling you prefer.
- Empanadas can be frozen before baking.
- Serve with salsa or dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: empanadas, savory pastries, Latin American food