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Traditional Empanadas Stuffed With Minced Beef, Pepper and Corn Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of Latin America with these mouthwatering Traditional Empanadas, featuring a savory filling of minced beef, peppers, and corn, all encased in a flaky, golden pastry. Perfect for a snack or a hearty meal, these empanadas are a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to a world of deliciousness.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Latin American
Servings 12 empanadas
Calories 298 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheets
  • Pastry brush
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife
  • Fork

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup ice water

For the Filling:

  • 1 pound minced beef
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons cumin powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Assembly:

  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • Optional: sesame seeds or paprika for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until you have a crumbly texture.
  • Beat the egg and add it to the mixture.
  • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
  • Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a fork.
  • Add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, and corn kernels. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
  • Season with cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  • Remove the filling from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  • Use a round cutter or a small plate to cut out 4-5 inch circles from the dough.
  • Place a spoonful of the beef and vegetable filling in the center of each dough circle.
  • Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
  • Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the empanadas for a golden finish.
  • Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds or paprika on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  • Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Notes

Tips:
  • Ensure the butter for the dough is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
  • Don't overfill the empanadas to prevent leaks during baking.
  • You can customize the filling with other ingredients like olives, raisins, or hard-boiled eggs.
  • Empanadas can be frozen before baking for future use.
 
Nutrition (per serving):
  • Calories: 298
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
Keyword empanadas