Taste argentina at home: how to make beef empanadas that will melt in your mouth
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of homemade beef empanadas, a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Argentina. With this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a culinary adventure, unraveling the secrets of crafting these delectable treats from scratch.
The Art of the Dough
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the cold water while mixing with a fork.
3. Continue mixing until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
The Savory Beef Filling
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the beef broth and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Assembling the Empanadas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thin sheet.
3. Cut out circles from the dough using a 4-inch cookie cutter.
4. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
6. Brush the empanadas with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) to give them a golden brown finish.
Baking to Perfection
Instructions:
1. Bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
2. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving.
Accompaniments for Delight
Enhance the flavors of your empanadas with a variety of accompaniments:
- Chimichurri sauce
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Pico de gallo
- Salsa
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overwork the dough, as it will become tough.
- Seal the empanadas tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
The Joy of Homemade Empanadas
Homemade beef empanadas are a culinary delight that will impress your family and friends. With this step-by-step guide, you can recreate the authentic flavors of Argentina in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process of making these delectable treats and savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of meat in the filling?
A: Yes, you can use ground pork, chicken, or lamb.
Q: How can I make the empanadas vegetarian?
A: Replace the ground beef with a vegetarian substitute, such as lentils or beans.
Q: Can I freeze the empanadas for later use?
A: Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before or after baking. To freeze unbaked empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze baked empanadas, let them cool completely and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
