There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a warm, homemade empanada. For me, empanadas are more than just a delicious snack; they’re a treasure chest of memories. Growing up, empanada day was always special in our household. These savory pastries were a labor of love, prepared with a variety of fillings to please everyone at the table. From my first attempt at rolling dough under my grandmother’s watchful eye, to perfecting my own unique filling as an adult, empanadas have been a constant in my life. This recipe is great for anyone looking to recreate these warm memories or make new ones.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, you’ll find these empanadas are as fun to make as they are to eat.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour,
- 1/2 teaspoon salt,
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed,
- 1/4 cup ice water,
- 1 tablespoon olive oil,
- 1 onion, finely chopped,
- 2 garlic cloves, minced,
- 1 pound ground beef,
- 1 teaspoon cumin,
- 1 teaspoon paprika,
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped,
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped,
- 1 egg, for egg wash,
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter, and use your hands or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until soft. Add ground beef, cumin, and paprika. Cook until beef is browned. Remove from heat, stir in chopped olives and hard-boiled eggs. Let the mixture cool.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out round disc shapes using a cutter. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each disc. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, use a fork to seal the edges. Brush each empanada with beaten egg.
Arrange empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Final words
Empanadas are a fantastic way to bring a piece of Latin America into your kitchen. They’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or simply indulging in a savory snack. This homemade empanadas recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to explore other recipes on our site for more culinary inspiration!
Tags
empanadas recipe, homemade empanadas, savory pastries, Latin American cuisine
