Ah, Argentinian Beef Empanadas! Just thinking about them makes my mouth water. These little pockets of savory goodness remind me of my travels through Argentina, where I indulged in every empanada shop I could find. The buttery, flaky crust encasing well-seasoned beef, onions, and spices has become one of my absolute favorites to make at home. Trust me, once you take a bite of a freshly baked empanada, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed streets of Buenos Aires. 🥟
What truly makes these empanadas special is how they’re not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic way to bring friends and family together. I remember a cozy evening when I made a batch with some friends – it turned into a fun cooking party and we all left with happy hearts (and stomachs!). It’s the perfect recipe to share, and I’m thrilled to walk you through it!
What’s in Argentinian Beef Empanadas?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I prefer using lean ground beef for a balanced flavor and a healthier option. You can even mix in some ground pork if you’re feeling adventurous!
Onion: Sweet, sautéed onions add incredible aroma and flavor to the filling, making every bite juicy and delicious. Yellow or white onions work perfectly for this.
Garlic: A couple of minced cloves give a punch of flavor and depth. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of garlic sautéing? It’s like an instant flavor bomb!
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, and Oregano): These spices add that authentic South American flair. A bit of cumin brings nuttiness, paprika adds a gentle heat, and oregano gives a touch of earthiness.
Beef Broth: A splash of beef broth helps keep the filling moist and flavorful. I opt for low-sodium broth – it’s a little healthier and lets the spices shine through.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic. It adds richness and ensures that everything cooks to perfection.
Empanada Dough: You can make your own, which is a fun and rewarding process, or opt for pre-made dough for a quick solution. I often go for the store-bought option—life is busy!
Is Argentinian Beef Empanadas Good for You?
Let’s get real – while empanadas can be a delicious treat, moderation is key!
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and iron, ground beef provides substantial nutrients. Opting for lean beef can help keep the fat content lower.
Onion and Garlic: Both are full of beneficial compounds that can help boost your immune system; they also add wonderful flavor without extra calories.
Spices: Cumin may help with digestion, while oregano is known for its antioxidant properties. It’s nice to know your favorite flavors also pack some health benefits!
However, the pastry is where things can get a little indulgent. If you’re looking to make them a bit healthier, consider baking instead of frying, or even making a veggie filling with beans or cheese for a lighter twist.
Ingredients for Argentinian Beef Empanadas (Serves 4-6)
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 package empanada dough (or homemade dough)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
How to Make Argentinian Beef Empanadas?
1. **Prepare the Filling:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
– Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
– Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
– Pour in the beef broth, stir, and let it simmer for a few minutes until the liquid mostly evaporates. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. **Assemble the Empanadas:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– On a clean surface, lay out the empanada dough. Using a round cutter (or a cup), cut out circles of about 4-5 inches.
– Place a spoonful of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
– Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal.
3. **Egg Wash (Optional):**
– If you want that lovely golden finish, whisk an egg in a small bowl and brush it over the empanadas.
4. **Bake:**
– Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. **Serve:**
– Let them cool slightly, and then dive into these gorgeous empanadas. They’re best served with chimichurri sauce or a simple salad on the side!
Creative Ideas for Your Empanadas
– **Vegetarian Option:** Swap the beef for a mixture of chopped spinach, feta cheese, and mushrooms for a delightful veggie filling.
– **Spice it Up:** If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
– **Dipping Sauce:** Serve with a side of salsa for a fresh kick, or a rich avocado crema for creaminess.
– **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the empanadas in advance and freeze them. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
I hope you give these Argentinian Beef Empanadas a try! They are perfect to make with loved ones or whip up for a cozy night in. If you do make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out, or any fun twists you added! Cooking is all about creativity, after all, and I can’t wait to hear about your empanada journey!