How To Make Copycat Bahama Breeze Beef Empanadas – A Delicious Recipe For The Perfect Appetizer

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Bahama Breeze beef empanadas, a Caribbean delicacy that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant shores of the Bahamas. Follow this comprehensive guide to master the art of crafting these delectable pockets of savory goodness.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Create the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the butter cubes and work them into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 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.

Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the beef broth and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro.

Assemble the Empanadas

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
3. Roll out each piece of dough into a 4-inch circle.
4. Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
6. Crimp the edges with a fork or empanada press.

Bake the Empanadas

1. Transfer the empanadas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush the empanadas with an egg wash made from 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let Cool and Enjoy

1. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a combination of chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, and corn.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling.
• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the filling before sealing the empanadas.

Tips

• For a flaky crust, keep the butter and water cold.
• Do not overfill the empanadas, or they will burst open during baking.
• If you do not have an empanada press, use a fork to crimp the edges.
• Let the empanadas cool slightly before eating to avoid burning your mouth.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them overnight before baking. When ready to serve, bring them to room temperature for 30 minutes and then bake as directed.

2. How do I store leftover empanadas?
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the empanadas for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

3. What dipping sauces go well with beef empanadas?
Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, chimichurri, and pico de gallo are all excellent choices for dipping beef empanadas.