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+ servings

Empanadas

Deliciously spiced pastries with a flaky crust and versatile fillings, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Latin American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour a versatile base for a flaky, tender crust.
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavor and balances the richness of the dough.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter adds a rich, buttery flavor; for a lighter option, use cold vegetable shortening.
  • 1/4 cup cold water helps bind the dough without warming it up too much; ice-cold is best.
For the Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef (or chicken) traditional choices; feel free to substitute with lentils for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 medium onion provides sweetness and depth; saut? until soft for the best results.
  • 1 medium bell pepper adds color and crunch; use any variety for different flavors.
  • 2 cloves garlic infuses the filling with aromatic goodness; fresh is always best!
  • 1 teaspoon cumin gives empanadas their signature warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika adds earthiness to the filling.

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt, then gradually add water until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Rest the Dough
  1. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
Roll Out
  1. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). On a floured surface, roll each ball into thin circles, about 6 inches in diameter.
Make the Filling
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, saut? onions and garlic until translucent. Add your choice of meat or veggies, cooking until fully cooked and seasoned to taste.
Fill the Empanadas
  1. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over and crimp the edges with a fork to seal tightly, ensuring no filling escapes.
Bake or Fry
  1. For Baking: Preheat your oven to 375?F and place empanadas on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  2. For Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan and fry empanadas for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1empanadaCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Serve with chimichurri sauce for an extra flavor boost!

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