Ah, beef empanadas! Just the mention of them transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the tantalizing aroma of spices and tender meat filled the air. I remember as a kid, sitting on a stool, eagerly watching her work the dough with deft hands, all while sharing stories about her upbringing. Those sweet moments of laughter mixed with the warmth of homemade food are precious to me. It’s no wonder that whenever I make empanadas, I feel a little piece of my heritage come alive!
What I love most about these beef empanadas is their versatility. You can serve them as appetizers for a party or enjoy them as a comforting meal at home. Plus, they have this impressive factor that makes everyone think you spent hours in the kitchen, while in reality, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up! Let’s get into how you can create these delightful little pockets of goodness!
What’s in Beef Empanadas?
Ground Beef: Essential for that hearty filling, I prefer using lean beef for a great balance of flavor and health. Sometimes I like to mix in a little ground pork for added richness!
Onion: Chopped finely, onions add a wonderful sweetness and depth to the filling. I always use yellow onions, as they caramelize beautifully.
Garlic: A couple of minced garlic cloves take the flavor of the filling to another level. Seriously, garlic is a game changer!
Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers not only contribute flavor but also a nice crunch. I like using red or green, depending on what I have on hand.
Spices: Cumin, paprika, and a bit of salt and pepper are the stars here. They bring warmth and a touch of smokiness, making the filling irresistible.
Olive Oil: Just a bit of olive oil for sautéing the aromatic ingredients. Extra virgin is my go-to!
Dough: You can go the homemade route, but I often use store-bought empanada dough for convenience. It saves time and tastes just as good!
Is Beef Empanadas Good for You?
Beef empanadas can be a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation!
Ground Beef: An excellent source of protein, helping to keep you full longer. Just keep an eye on the fat content; opting for lean ground beef can make a difference.
Vegetables: The onions and bell peppers contribute vitamins A and C and fiber, which are beneficial for overall health.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat can enhance heart health when used in moderation.
However, keep in mind that they’re often fried, which can add extra calories. Baking them instead is a great option for a lighter take on this classic dish!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound of ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 package of store-bought empanada dough (usually contains about 12-14 discs)
This recipe makes about 12-14 empanadas, which serves 4-6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!
How to Make Beef Empanadas?
1. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they become soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. **Brown the Beef**: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Season the Filling**: Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 more minutes to meld the flavors together. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. **Prepare the Dough**: While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the empanada dough out and lay it on a clean surface.
5. **Assemble the Empanadas**: Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold it over to create a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
6. **Bake**: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. (If you desire a golden finish, brush tops with an egg wash made of beaten egg and a splash of water.) Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. **Serve and Enjoy!**: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly and serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad!
Fun Suggestions for a Flare!
Want to take your empanadas to the next level? Here are a few ideas:
– **Add Cheese**: Sprinkle some shredded cheese into the filling for a melty surprise!
– **Spicy Twist**: Mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
– **Dipping Sauces**: A side of chimichurri or a zesty salsa pairs perfectly with these scrumptious snacks.
So there you have it—my personal take on beef empanadas! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. Each bite brings me joy and nostalgia, and I know it will for you too. Please let me know how yours turn out and what special twists you added! Happy cooking!