Recipe of the Week: Beef Empanadas

Savory hand-held pastries that bring warmth and comfort with every bite.

Empanadas trace their roots back to Galicia in Spain and Portugal. These savory hand pies have spread across Latin America, each region adding its unique twist. Beloved in Argentina, beef empanadas are a staple at family gatherings and celebrations for their flaky crust and flavorful fillings, making them a comforting and filling treat.

🛒 Ingredients

For the dough

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup cold water

For the filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Incorporate the egg and water until the dough forms, then wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll out the dough

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches about 1/4 inch in thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles approximately 4 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Fill the empanadas

Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border free.

Step 5: Seal the empanadas

Carefully fold the dough over the filling to make a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork to ensure they stay closed during baking.

Step 6: Apply egg wash

Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a nice golden color during baking.

Step 7: Bake the empanadas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.