Description
This delicious empanadas recipe features a flaky homemade dough filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or chicken, onions, garlic, and spices. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these empanadas can be baked until golden or fried for a crispy texture, making them a versatile treat loved across many cuisines.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Filling Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes or peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled, diced butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar, then gradually add this to the flour mixture. Knead gently until a dough forms. Shape it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the cumin, paprika, and optional diced potatoes or peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the filling to cool before assembling.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the rolled dough into circles roughly 4 to 6 inches in diameter. Spoon a portion of the cooled filling onto each circle, fold the dough over into a half-moon shape, and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Cook the Empanadas: Arrange the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, you can fry them in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
Notes
- Refrigerating the dough helps achieve a flakier texture during baking.
- You can customize the filling with vegetables like diced potatoes or peas based on preference.
- Brush with egg wash for a beautiful golden crust when baking.
- Frying creates a crispier empanada but increases calorie content.
- Ensure the filling is cooled before assembling to avoid dough sogginess.
- Empanadas are versatile and can be served hot or at room temperature.
