Satisfy your cravings: the ultimate how-to guide for making goya beef empanadas
Indulge in the tantalizing aroma and explosive flavors of Goya beef empanadas, a culinary masterpiece that transports your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Latin America. This guide will walk you through the effortless steps of creating these delectable pastries, ensuring a perfect batch every time.
Ingredients
For the Empanada Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Making the Empanada Dough:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Beef Filling:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Brown the ground beef, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Assembling the Empanadas:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet.
3. Cut out 12 circles from the dough using a 4-inch (10 cm) cookie cutter.
4. Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges using a fork or your fingers.
Baking the Empanadas:
1. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush the tops with an egg wash made from 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving and Enjoying
Serve the Goya beef empanadas hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chimichurri or salsa. Enjoy the crispy crust, flavorful filling, and the perfect balance of spices that will leave you craving more.
Variations
- Cheese Empanadas: Add shredded cheese to the beef filling for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetable Empanadas: Replace the ground beef with your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or potatoes.
- Sweet Empanadas: Fill the empanadas with fruit, such as apples, peaches, or berries, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.
Tips
- For a flaky crust, use very cold water when making the dough.
- If the dough is too dry, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.
- If the dough is too wet, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
- To prevent the empanadas from bursting, make sure the edges are sealed tightly.
- Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent the filling from spilling out.
The Culinary Journey Concludes
Cooking Goya beef empanadas is an art form that combines simple ingredients with a burst of flavors. With this step-by-step guide, you can now master this culinary delight and impress your friends and family with your culinary prowess. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner filling.
Q: What if I don’t have a cookie cutter?
A: You can use the rim of a glass or a small bowl to cut out the dough circles.
Q: How do I store leftover empanadas?
A: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
