John Washington
Imagine yourself in a bustling Buenos Aires market, surrounded by vibrant colors, lively music, and the enticing smell of freshly baked goods. There, tucked amongst the spirited chatter and laughter, you’ll find a beloved culinary treasure that has warmed the hearts and bellies of locals for generations: Empanadas with Beef, or “эмпанадас с говядиной.” These empanadas are a celebration of Argentina’s rich culinary heritage, combining flavors and techniques brought over by Spanish settlers with local ingredients. The result is a pastry that cradles a savory, spiced beef filling within its crispy golden shell.
Empanadas are toasted parcels of delight, often enjoyed during family gatherings, festive occasions, or just cherished moments of indulgence. These small pockets of joy are not only bursting with satisfying umami flavors but are also a manageable indulgence at around 250 calories apiece. Each bite of these empanadas delivers a harmonious blend of seasoned ground beef, tender onions, and a touch of sweetness from raisins, all wrapped in a flaky homemade dough.
This enticing recipe guides you to recreate the authentic taste of Argentine beef empanadas in your kitchen, bringing a taste of the Pampas to your table.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1 large egg
– 1/3 cup cold water
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For the Filling:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Assembly and Baking:
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
– In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter, and using a pastry blender or your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
– In a small bowl, beat the egg and mix in the cold water and vinegar. Gradually pour this into the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
– Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shape into balls, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling:
– Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
– Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if necessary.
– Season the beef with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, mixing well. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.
3. Assemble the Empanadas:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– On a floured work surface, roll each piece of chilled dough into a thin circle, about 5-6 inches in diameter.
– Place approximately 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork or twist them to form a rope-like edge.
– Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and brush each with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Bake:
– Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
Cooking Tips:
– For an extra flaky crust, chill the filled empanadas for 15 minutes in the refrigerator before baking.
– Experiment with the filling by adding chopped bell peppers or a splash of red wine for added depth.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve these empanadas warm with a side of chimichurri sauce or a simple green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
– Pair with a chilled Argentinian Malbec or a refreshing glass of iced yerba mate for the full Argentine experience.
Invite family and friends to your kitchen and enjoy these mouthwatering beef empanadas together. Each delicious bite will bring you closer to the rich traditions and flavors of Argentina!
Discover the Ultimate Guide to Argentine Beef Empanadas
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the nutritional benefits of beef empanadas?
Empanadas not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide a modest amount of nutrition. With around 250 calories per serving, you’re getting a balanced dose of protein from the beef and eggs, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
Can I substitute ingredients in the empanada filling?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe includes beef and certain spices, feel free to tailor the filling to your preferences. You can swap ground beef with chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option. For vegetarians, diced mushrooms or lentils provide a hearty, satisfying alternative.
What is the best way to store leftover empanadas?
Leftover empanadas can be conveniently stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm to regain their crisp texture.
Tips and Tricks:
– Enhance Flavor with Marination: For a richer flavor profile, marinate the beef in a mix of the spices, along with a splash of red wine, for at least an hour before cooking. This technique infuses deeper flavors into the meat, making your empanadas even more delightful.
– Dough Perfection: Ensure your butter is chilled, as using cold butter is key to achieving the desired flaky texture in your empanada dough.
Regional Variations:
Argentina is renowned for its diverse regional empanada variations. For a spicy twist, try the “Salteña” style from the Salta province, which incorporates spicy peppers and corn into the mix. Alternatively, the “Tucumán” empanadas often feature a moist filling with potatoes.
Cooking Techniques:
– Frying Alternative: If you prefer a more indulgent version, consider deep-frying the empanadas instead of baking them. This method results in an exceptionally crisp crust, reminiscent of traditional street food varieties.
– Steaming Method: For those watching their calorie intake, steaming the empanadas is an alternative that preserves the flavors without adding extra fat.
Sustainability Tips:
– Opt for locally sourced, grass-fed beef to minimize your carbon footprint and support sustainable farming practices.
– Utilize seasonal vegetables or leftovers to reduce food waste and to experiment with different flavor profiles in your empanadas.
Take a culinary journey to Argentina by crafting these empanadas at home, and enjoy their long-standing tradition of bringing people together. The enticing blend of flavors in every bite will not only satisfy your hunger but also immerse you in the vibrant culture of this beautiful country. For more intriguing culinary topics and recipes, explore Food Network.
