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.
