Empanadas

Empanadas

These golden empanadas are delightful pastry pockets filled with a savory blend of spiced ground beef, onions, eggs, and green olives. Baked to a perfect crisp, they make a satisfying meal or appetizer.

Beef

Prep Time

45 min

Cook Time

25 min

Servings

6

Empanadas are a beloved dish found throughout Latin America and Spain, known for their flaky pastry crust and flavorful fillings. Originating as a way to transport meals conveniently, these pastries bring a comforting blend of textures and spices to the table. The combination of tender ground beef with aromatic cumin and paprika creates a warm, inviting flavor profile. This recipe features a buttery, crumbly dough that encases a hearty filling of sautéed onions, seasoned meat, chopped eggs, and briny green olives. The olives add a subtle tang that brightens the savory beef mixture, while the eggs provide richness and texture. Baking these empanadas provides a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior. Serve these empanadas warm alongside a crisp salad or a zesty chimichurri sauce for dipping. They work wonderfully as party appetizers, lunchbox treats, or a casual dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward methods, you’re sure to impress family and friends with this tasty, traditional dish.

Ingredients

  • 500 g All purpose flour
  • 200 g Butter
  • 120 ml Water
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 500 g Ground Beef
  • 2 chopped Onion
  • 4 chopped Egg
  • 100 g Green Olives
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Pepper

Instructions

Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold butter, then gently rub it through the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs — this helps ensure a tender, flaky crust. Gradually drizzle in the water while stirring until a soft dough forms. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to rest and chill. Prepare the Filling: Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned evenly with no pink remaining. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the rich flavors, then remove from heat to cool slightly. Once cooled, fold in the chopped eggs and sliced green olives, mixing gently to combine. Assemble: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3mm thickness. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of dough. Spoon a generous tablespoon of filling onto one half of each circle. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling and press the edges together firmly. Seal the edges by pressing with the prongs of a fork, which not only secures the empanadas but also creates a lovely patterned edge. Cook: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the empanadas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each to allow for even cooking. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry turns a beautiful golden brown and is crisp to the touch. Pro Tips: - For an extra flaky and tender crust, add a tablespoon of vinegar to the dough mixture; the acid helps inhibit gluten development. - Ensure the dough is not overworked during mixing to keep it light and crumbly. - To add a shiny finish, brush the empanadas with a beaten egg before baking. - Serve fresh and warm for the best taste experience, pairing them with a fresh salad or spicy dipping sauce.

Quick Info

Prep Time
45 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
70 min
Servings
6