Beef Empanadas
Golden pastry turnovers filled with savory seasoned ground beef and hard-boiled eggs.
Details
Ingredients
- 12 empanada discs (dough)
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Green olives, chopped
- Egg wash
Instructions
- 1
Cook beef with onion and spices. Cool.
- 2
Stir in eggs and olives.
- 3
Place filling on dough discs.
- 4
Fold and seal edges with fork.
- 5
Brush with egg wash.
- 6
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 mins.
About This Recipe
The aroma of freshly baked empanadas immediately transports one to the bustling streets and convivial family gatherings of Argentina. These iconic golden turnovers, deeply rooted in Spanish culinary traditions but distinctively Argentinian, represent comfort and celebration in every bite. Central to their charm is the savory *pino* filling—a meticulously seasoned blend of ground beef, sautéed onion, aromatic cumin and paprika, brightened by chopped green olives, and enriched with the creamy texture of hard-boiled eggs. The art lies not just in the robust flavor of the filling, often allowed to cool completely for optimal texture and ease of assembly, but also in the delicate balance with the flaky, buttery pastry shell. While convenient pre-made discs simplify the process, mastering the *repulgue*, the decorative crimped edge, is a hallmark of an authentic empanada. Variations abound, from adding a hint of sweetness with raisins to incorporating diced potatoes, showcasing the versatility of this beloved staple. Perfectly portioned, empanadas are ideal as a substantial appetizer, a light lunch, or a delightful party snack, often served alongside a vibrant chimichurri or a simple green salad to cut through their richness.
Tips & Tricks
- • To prevent soggy empanadas, ensure your beef filling is completely cooled and drained of any excess liquid before spooning it onto the dough discs. This helps maintain pastry integrity during baking and makes sealing much easier.
- • For a delightful sweet-savory contrast, consider adding a tablespoon of golden raisins or a pinch of sugar to your beef filling. Alternatively, a vegetarian version can be made with a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and cheese.
- • Empanadas are excellent for make-ahead meals; assemble them completely, then freeze unbaked on a baking sheet until solid before transferring to an airtight bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- • Serve these savory empanadas with a vibrant homemade chimichurri sauce for an authentic Argentinian touch, or alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness. A glass of Malbec or a refreshing cerveza also makes for an excellent pairing.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)