Delicious Empanadas

Empanadas are a delightful and versatile dish enjoyed in many cultures around the world. These savory pastries can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a favorite for any occasion. Here’s a simple recipe for classic beef empanadas:

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup cold water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green olives (optional)
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)

For Assembling

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Make the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, water, and vinegar. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Knead and Chill: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Divide it in half, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and bell pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
2. Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Season: Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. If using, stir in the chopped olives and hard-boiled egg. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Empanadas

1. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-6 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
2. Fill: Place a spoonful of the beef mixture 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 or pinch and fold them decoratively.
3. Egg Wash: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg.

Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

• Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, plain or with your favorite dipping sauce.

These delicious empanadas make for a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a main course. The flaky, buttery crust and flavorful filling are sure to be a hit with everyone!

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