Empanadas (Savory Stuffed Pastries)

Discover the delicious flavors of Latin America with Empanadas, golden pastries filled with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or a main dish, Empanadas bring a satisfying combination of crisp pastry and flavorful fillings to your table.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup cold water (adjust as needed)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef or chicken
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup olives, chopped
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
• Oil for frying or baking

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, water, and vinegar. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the flour until a dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling

   Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. Add ground meat, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Stir in olives, raisins (if using), paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs if desired.

3. Assemble the Empanadas

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into circles (4–6 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold dough over to form a half-moon and press edges with a fork to seal. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.

4. Cook the Empanadas

   Baking: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden. Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels.

5. Serve

   Serve hot with chimichurri, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce. Empanadas are perfect for parties, family meals, or a satisfying snack anytime.