The ultimate guide to beef empanadas with flour tortillas: get ready to impress!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of homemade beef empanadas with our step-by-step guide. Utilizing versatile flour tortillas, this recipe offers a convenient and delectable way to enjoy this beloved Latin American delicacy.

Ingredients for the Beef Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

Ingredients for the Empanada Dough (using Flour Tortillas):

• 12 flour tortillas (8-10 inches)
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Filling:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
• Stir in the onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are softened.
• Gradually add the water and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated.

2. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Place a flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of the beef filling in the center.
• Fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
• Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they are securely closed.

3. Heat the Oil:

• Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350-375°F.

4. Fry the Empanadas:

• Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the empanadas from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

5. Enjoy:

• Serve the beef empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole.

Tips for Success:

• For a more flavorful filling, marinate the ground beef in your favorite spices overnight.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
• If the empanada dough tears, simply patch it with another piece of tortilla.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the empanadas.
• Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving to prevent burns.

Variations:

• Experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, pork, or cheese.
• Add shredded vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the beef filling.
• Top the empanadas with shredded cheese before frying.
• Bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

Nutritional Information:

• 1 beef empanada with flour tortilla (approximately):
• Calories: 250-300
• Fat: 10-15 grams
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams

Beyond the Recipe:

• Empanadas are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or snack.
• They are a popular food in many Latin American countries and have cultural significance.
• The name “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” which means “to wrap in bread.”

What People Want to Know

Q: What type of flour tortillas should I use?
A: Any type of flour tortilla will work, but larger tortillas (8-10 inches) are easier to handle.

Q: Can I use other types of dough?
A: Yes, you can use empanada dough, puff pastry, or even crescent roll dough.

Q: How do I seal the empanadas properly?
A: Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas firmly. You can also use a pastry brush dipped in water to help seal the edges.

Q: How can I prevent the empanadas from bursting?
A: Make sure the filling is not overfilled and that the empanadas are sealed properly. Prick the empanadas with a fork before frying to release any trapped air.

Q: What is the best dipping sauce for beef empanadas?
A: Salsa, guacamole, or a cilantro-lime crema are all great options.