Beef empanadas are a delightful treat that combines a flaky crust with a savory beef filling. These hand-held pastries are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a party snack, or a picnic treat. The rich flavor of the ground beef mixed with a variety of seasonings makes every bite a burst of taste. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the beef empanada recipe, guiding you through each step to create these mouth-watering delights.
Choosing the Right Main Ingredient
When it comes to making the perfect beef empanada, the quality of the beef is crucial. Opt for fresh, high-quality ground beef. The fat content in the beef should be around 80% lean to ensure a juicy filling without being too greasy. This balance will give your empanadas the right texture and flavor.
Seasoning the Beef
Seasoning is what makes or breaks the beef empanada recipe. The key spices include ground cumin, chili powder, and diced green chiles. These ingredients add a depth of flavor that complements the beef perfectly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Adding diced onions and pimento peppers will enhance the flavor profile, making your empanadas irresistible.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
To make the process seamless, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Skillet: A sturdy skillet for browning the ground beef. Use medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear.
- Baking Sheet: Ideal for baking the empanadas to golden brown perfection.
- Nonstick Baking Mat or Parchment Paper: Prevents the empanadas from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Clean Flat Surface: Necessary for rolling out the pie crusts.
- Round Pastry Cutter: Ensures uniform empanada shapes.
Comprehensive Beef Empanada Recipe
Beef Empanadas
Beef Empanada Recipe: I absolutely love this beef empanada recipe! The savory beef mixture wrapped in a flaky crust is pure comfort food. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The blend of spices and tender ground beef makes each bite irresistible and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 refrigerated pie crust package (2 crusts)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup diced green chiles
- 1/4 cup diced pimento peppers
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, whisked (for egg wash)
- Nonstick baking mat or parchment paper
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onions, green chiles, and pimento peppers to the skillet. Saute for a few minutes until onions are translucent.
- Stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Crust:
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean flat surface. Use a round pastry cutter to cut out circles from the dough.
Assemble the Empanadas:
- Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle.
- Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
Bake the Empanadas:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with a nonstick baking mat or parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the whisked egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 250Total Fat: 10gCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes
Beef empanadas can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- Authentic Mexican Guacamole: A creamy, fresh dip made with real Hass avocados, Serrano peppers, cilantro, garlic, and onion.
- Super Easy Mexican Rice: A flavorful side dish that complements the rich taste of the empanadas.
- Fiesta Lime Shrimp Salad: A light and zesty salad that balances the savory beef filling.
Useful Cooking Tips
- Refrigerated Pie Crust: If you’re short on time, refrigerated pie crust is a convenient option. Ensure it’s properly chilled before rolling out to prevent tearing.
- Cheese Filling: For an extra cheesy empanada, you can add more shredded cheese or even mix in some cream cheese for a richer filling.
- Golden Brown Perfection: Brushing the empanadas with a whisked egg helps achieve that perfect golden brown color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Avoid overstuffing the empanadas as this can cause them to burst open during baking.
- Underseasoning: Be generous with your spices. Taste the beef mixture before filling the dough to ensure it’s well-seasoned.
- Not Sealing Properly: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, beef empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. With this beef empanada recipe, you’ll be able to create a tasty and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Remember to follow the tips and avoid common mistakes to achieve the best results. Happy cooking!
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.