Beef Turnovers: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Homemade Empanadas
Empanadas are a beloved dish across many cultures, known for their flaky crust and savory fillings. These Beef Empanadas (or Beef Turnovers) bring a delicious blend of tender ground beef, aromatic spices, and rich ingredients, all wrapped in a perfectly golden, homemade pastry. Whether you’re looking for a comforting snack, a party appetizer, or a hearty meal on the go, these empanadas are sure to satisfy. The best part? They’re easier to make than you might think! Follow this step-by-step recipe to bring a taste of traditional empanadas right to your kitchen
Beef Empanadas (Turnovers)**
Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. These savory turnovers, filled with flavorful seasoned beef, are a perfect handheld treat that is both satisfying and easy to make at home.
#### **Ingredients:**
For the Dough:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For the Filling:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 500g ground beef
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup green olives, sliced (optional)
– 1 boiled egg, chopped (optional)
For Assembly:
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Flour for dusting
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
– In a small bowl, whisk the egg, water, and vinegar together. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If needed, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
– Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it just until it comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Make the Filling:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
– Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned.
– Stir in the cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, and oregano. Add the tomato paste and broth, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sliced olives and chopped boiled egg, if using. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.
3. **Assemble the Empanadas:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough.
– Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together firmly. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal them.
– Transfer the empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. **Bake:**
– Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
– Serve warm and enjoy!
#### **Notes:**
– **Make it your own:** You can add other fillings like cheese, bell peppers, or even a touch of heat with chopped jalapeños.
– **Storing leftovers:** Cooked empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven until warmed through.
– **Freezing tip:** You can freeze unbaked empanadas. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw – simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
