Make Delicious Beef Empanadas With Goya Discos – Here’s How!

Empanadas, a culinary delight originating from Spain and prevalent in Latin American cuisines, are delectable pastries filled with savory or sweet ingredients. Goya Discos, pre-made pastry dough, offer an effortless solution for crafting authentic empanadas at home. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of making beef empanadas with Goya Discos, providing step-by-step instructions and invaluable tips to achieve perfect results.

Gathering the Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, ensure you have the following ingredients:

• Goya Discos (pack of 12)
• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Bell pepper (1 green, chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Chili powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparing the Filling

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up the meat, until it is browned and no longer pink.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Assembling the Empanadas

1. Prepare the Discos: Thaw the Goya Discos according to the package instructions.
2. Fill the Discos: Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each disco.
3. Fold the Discos: Fold the disco over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to seal the edges.

Cooking the Empanadas

1. Frying Method: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the empanadas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes per side.
2. Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serving the Empanadas

Serve the beef empanadas with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Use cold ingredients to prevent the dough from becoming tough.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas, as this can cause them to burst during cooking.
• Seal the edges of the empanadas thoroughly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Fry or bake the empanadas until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

Variations on the Filling

The classic beef empanada filling can be customized to your liking. Here are a few variations:

• Spicy Beef: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Cheese: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the filling.
• Vegetable: Add chopped carrots, celery, or corn to the filling.
• Pork: Use ground pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile.

Final Note: The Art of Empanada Mastery

Making beef empanadas with Goya Discos is a rewarding culinary experience that yields delicious and authentic results. By following the steps outlined in this guide and experimenting with different fillings, you can create a variety of empanadas that will impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these savory pastries are a perfect addition to any meal.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use other types of pastry dough for empanadas?
A: Yes, you can use homemade pastry dough or other pre-made doughs, such as puff pastry or crescent roll dough.

Q: How do I store leftover empanadas?
A: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze empanadas?
A: Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet until frozen. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw the empanadas overnight in the refrigerator and then fry or bake as directed.