The Ultimate Guide To Cooking Goya Beef Empanadas – A Delicious And Easy Recipe!

Empanadas, the delectable pastries filled with savory or sweet ingredients, have captivated taste buds worldwide. Among the most beloved variations is the Goya beef empanada, a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the palate. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the art of crafting these culinary delights, providing a step-by-step roadmap to success.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup Goya sofrito
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut the shortening into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the Goya sofrito and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half.

Assembling the Empanadas:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch (30 cm) circle.
3. Cut out 12 (4-inch) circles from the dough.
4. Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape.
6. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Baking the Empanadas:

1. Place the empanadas on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
2. Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips for Success:

• For a flaky crust, make sure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas, or they will burst during baking.
• If you don’t have Goya sofrito, you can substitute your favorite homemade or store-bought sofrito.
• Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chimichurri or salsa.

The Perfect Pairing

Goya beef empanadas are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course. They pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, including:

• Beer: A light, crisp beer, such as a lager or pilsner, will complement the savory flavors of the empanadas.
• Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, will enhance the richness of the beef filling.
• Cocktails: A refreshing mojito or a spicy margarita will provide a lively accompaniment to the empanadas.

A Culinary Journey

Cooking Goya beef empanadas is not merely a culinary task but a journey of flavors and textures. From the flaky crust to the savory filling, each element contributes to a symphony of taste that will leave an unforgettable impression. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use a different type of meat in the filling?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground pork, chicken, or turkey for the ground beef.

Q: How can I make the empanadas vegetarian?
A: You can replace the ground beef with a combination of chopped vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Q: Can I freeze the empanadas before baking?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked empanadas for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Q: How long will the empanadas keep?
A: The empanadas will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.