Argentinian Beef Empanadas Are The Perfect Comfort Food! Learn How To Make Them From Scratch With This Easy Recipe. #foodporn #argentinianfood

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Argentina? Look no further than the beloved beef empanada, a culinary masterpiece that embodies the country’s rich culinary heritage. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a culinary adventure and unveil the secrets to creating authentic Argentinean beef empanadas from scratch.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather the essential ingredients that will form the foundation of our empanadas:

• Empanada Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup ice water
• Beef Filling:
• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Other:
• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step 1: Crafting the Empanada Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Beef Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef.
2. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened.
4. Stir in the cumin and paprika and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assembling the Empanadas

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin circle about 12 inches in diameter.
3. Cut out 6-inch circles of dough using a cookie cutter or a glass.
4. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
6. Crimp the edges with a fork to secure.

Step 4: Baking or Frying the Empanadas

You have two options for cooking your empanadas:

Baking:
1. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush with the beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Frying:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Fry the empanadas for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serving the Empanadas

Serve the empanadas hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chimichurri or salsa.

Step 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dough is too crumbly: Add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
• Dough is too sticky: Add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is no longer sticky.
• Empanadas are not sealing: Make sure the edges of the dough are moistened with water before crimping.
• Empanadas are not browning: Increase the oven temperature or fry the empanadas for longer.

The Finishing Touch: Creating the Perfect Chimichurri Sauce

No Argentinean beef empanada experience is complete without the iconic chimichurri sauce. Here’s how to make it:

• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Let the sauce marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. However, the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the empanadas and freeze them uncooked for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw the empanadas overnight in the refrigerator and bake or fry as directed.

Q: What is the best dipping sauce for empanadas?
A: Chimichurri sauce is the traditional dipping sauce for Argentinean beef empanadas. However, you can also serve them with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce.