Argentine Beef Empanadas

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, savory pocket of pure joy. The flaky crust crumbles delicately, giving way to a rich, flavorful beef filling that dances on your taste buds. These Argentine Beef Empanadas aren’t just food; they’re a little piece of South American sunshine.

My grandma used to make these for every family gathering, and the aroma alone was enough to send us kids into a frenzy. Now, I’m sharing this cherished recipe with you, promising an adventure in flavor that’s surprisingly easy to recreate in your own kitchen. They’re perfect for game days, parties, or simply a cozy night in.

• Enjoy an easy-to-make recipe that brings authentic Argentine flavors to your home kitchen.
• Savor the rich, savory flavor of tender beef combined with aromatic spices, creating a taste sensation.
• Impress your friends and family with a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Customize the filling with your favorite vegetables and spices for a versatile meal option.

Ingredients for Argentine Beef Empanadas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef Use lean ground beef (85/15) for a flavorful filling without excess grease. Look for bright red color and a fresh smell when selecting your beef.

Empanada Dough You can find pre-made empanada dough rounds in the refrigerated or frozen section of most supermarkets. Alternatively, you can make your own dough using flour, butter, and water.

Onion Yellow or white onion adds a savory base to the filling. Dice it finely for even cooking and distribution of flavor.

Red Bell Pepper Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the filling. Remove the seeds and membranes before dicing.

Green Olives Stuffed green olives provide a salty, briny counterpoint to the richness of the beef. Slice them thinly before adding to the filling.

Hard-Boiled Eggs Add a creamy texture and richness to the empanada filling. Chop them into small pieces for even distribution.

Ground Cumin A warm, earthy spice that’s essential to Argentine cuisine. Use fresh ground cumin for the best flavor.

Smoked Paprika Adds a smoky depth and vibrant red color to the filling. Sweet paprika can be substituted if smoked paprika is unavailable.

Beef Broth Adds moisture and intensifies the beefy flavor of the filling. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level.

Olive Oil Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.

Salt and Pepper To taste, to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.

Egg Wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) Creates a golden-brown, glossy crust.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Argentine Beef Empanadas

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Crumble in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook, uncovered, until the broth has mostly evaporated and the filling is slightly thickened, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Mix in the Extras

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sliced green olives and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the empanadas. This prevents the dough from getting soggy.

Step 4: Assemble the Empanadas

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. On a lightly floured surface, lay out the empanada dough rounds. Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling into the center of each round.

Step 5: Seal and Bake

Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal tightly. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking. Brush the empanadas with egg wash to give them a beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy

Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the crust is flaky. Let them cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious served warm or at room temperature. For a perfect meal, serve it warm and enjoy!.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Timing is everything when crafting these delectable delights. First, prepare the beef filling to allow the flavors to meld. While it simmers, get the dough ready. Assemble and bake the Argentine Beef Empanadas once both are complete for the most efficient kitchen dance.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap out some of the beef for ground turkey or lamb. Spice things up with a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of your favorite chili powder. Add chopped hard-boiled eggs or olives for a different texture and flavor profile in these Argentine Beef Empanadas.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Argentine Beef Empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the crust might lose some of its crispness.

Here are some tips to become an empanada expert:

• Don’t overfill the empanadas. Too much filling can cause them to burst during baking, leading to a messy and sad situation.

• Ensure the dough is cold before assembling to prevent the fat from melting, resulting in a flaky and tender crust after baking.

• Brush the empanadas with an egg wash before baking for a golden brown color and a beautiful sheen that’s visually appealing.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I remember when my friend, tried these for the first time, he ate 5 in one sitting! He kept saying, “These Argentine Beef Empanadas are like little pockets of joy!” It was the best compliment ever.

The Allure of Argentine Beef Empanadas: A Culinary Journey

Empanadas. Just the word conjures images of sun-drenched plazas, the lively chatter of families, and the tantalizing aroma of savory pastries baking in a stone oven. Of all the empanada varieties out there, the Argentine Beef Empanada stands out, a true ambassador of South American flavor. Forget your run-of-the-mill snacks; we’re diving headfirst into a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds tangoing.

A Brief History: More Than Just a Pastry

Before we get elbow-deep in flour and filling, let’s take a quick historical detour. Empanadas have a lineage stretching back centuries, with roots in Spain and Portugal. When these culinary traditions crossed the Atlantic, they melded with indigenous ingredients and flavors, resulting in the diverse empanada landscape we know and love today. Argentine Beef Empanadas, in particular, reflect the country’s rich agricultural heritage and its love affair with quality beef.

Why Argentine Beef Empanadas? What Makes Them Special

So, what distinguishes Argentine Beef Empanadas from the empanada crowd? First and foremost, it’s the beef. Argentina is renowned for its grass-fed cattle, resulting in a flavorful, tender, and incredibly satisfying meat. This isn’t just any ground beef; we are talking about flavor that sings! When combined with aromatic spices, onions, and peppers, the filling becomes a symphony of savory goodness. Encased in a flaky, golden crust, these empanadas are more than just a snack; they are a complete experience.

The Essential Ingredients: A Pantry Checklist

Alright, enough talk! Let’s get down to business. Here’s what you’ll need to bring these Argentine Beef Empanadas to life:

• **For the Dough:**
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of our flaky masterpiece.
• Butter: Cold, unsalted butter is your best friend for achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors.
• Ice water: Keeps the butter cold and the dough tender.

• **For the Filling:**
• Ground beef: High-quality, lean ground beef is key.
• Onion: Adds a savory base note.
• Red bell pepper: Provides sweetness and color.
• Green bell pepper: For a touch of bitterness and complexity.
• Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic!
• Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper are the stars of the show.
• Beef broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
• Hard-boiled eggs (optional): A traditional addition for texture and richness.
• Green olives (optional): For a briny burst of flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe: From Dough to Deliciousness

Now for the fun part: crafting these Argentine Beef Empanadas from scratch. Don’t worry, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Making the Dough: A Labor of Love (But Worth It!)

1. **Chill Out: ** Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The colder the butter, the flakier the crust, so resist the urge to use your warm hands too much.

2. **Hydrate: ** Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix!

3. **Rest and Relax: ** Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust. Patience is key.

Crafting the Filling: A Symphony of Flavors

1. **Sauté the Aromatics: ** In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper over medium heat until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. **Brown the Beef: ** Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.

3. **Spice It Up: ** Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to release the flavors of the spices.

4. **Simmer and Savor: ** Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated. This concentrates the flavors and creates a rich, savory filling.

5. **Add the Extras: ** If using, stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs and green olives.

6. **Cool Down: ** Let the filling cool completely before assembling the empanadas. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy.

Assembling the Empanadas: The Art of the Fold

1. **Roll and Cut: ** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a bowl to cut out circles of dough (about 4-5 inches in diameter).

2. **Fill ‘Em Up: ** Place a spoonful of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Remember, don’t overfill!

3. **Fold and Seal: ** Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal tightly. This is crucial to prevent the filling from escaping during baking.

4. **Egg Wash Magic: ** Brush the empanadas with a beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden-brown color.

5. **Bake to Perfection: ** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions: The Grand Finale

Once your Argentine Beef Empanadas are golden brown and smelling divine, it’s time to serve them up! Here are a few ideas:

• **As an Appetizer:** Perfect for parties or gatherings.
• **As a Main Course:** Serve with a side salad or some chimichurri sauce for a complete meal.
• **On the Go:** These empanadas are great for picnics, road trips, or a quick lunch.

Tips and Tricks: Level Up Your Empanada Game

Want to take your Argentine Beef Empanadas to the next level? Here are a few extra tips:

• **Make Ahead:** The dough and filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. This makes assembling the empanadas much quicker.
• **Freeze for Later:** Unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to get creative with the filling! Add different spices, vegetables, or even a touch of heat with some chili flakes.

Variations: Beyond the Traditional

While the classic Argentine Beef Empanada is a masterpiece in itself, there’s always room for a little experimentation.

Spicy Beef Empanadas: Add a Kick

For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef filling. You can also use a spicier variety of pepper, such as jalapeño or serrano.

Chicken Empanadas: A Lighter Option

Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken for a lighter and equally delicious option. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts.

Vegetarian Empanadas: Plant-Based Delight

For a vegetarian version, fill the empanadas with a mixture of vegetables such as corn, peas, carrots, potatoes, and spinach. Season with your favorite herbs and spices.

Troubleshooting: Common Empanada Problems and Solutions

Even experienced cooks encounter challenges from time to time. Here are a few common empanada problems and how to fix them:

• **Dough is too dry:** Add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until the dough comes together.
• **Dough is too sticky:** Add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the dough is easier to handle.
• **Filling is too dry:** Add a splash of beef broth or tomato sauce to moisten it.
• **Empanadas are bursting:** Make sure to seal the edges tightly and don’t overfill the empanadas.

Argentine Beef Empanadas: More Than Just a Recipe

Making Argentine Beef Empanadas is more than just following a recipe. It’s about connecting with a culinary tradition, sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to embark on an empanada adventure! The aroma, the flavors, and the satisfaction of creating something truly special will make it all worthwhile. And who knows, maybe you will get your friend eating 5 empanadas in a row. Enjoy!

Conclusion for Argentine Beef Empanadas

These Argentine Beef Empanadas offer a flavorful journey with every bite. The combination of savory filling and flaky crust is simply irresistible. Whether you bake or fry them, these empanadas are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a complete meal. Don’t be intimidated by the process, the recipe is straightforward, and the results are rewarding. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create some deliciousness. Happy cooking!

Print

FAQs

What makes these Argentine Beef Empanadas so special?

Ah, that’s like asking what makes a sunset gorgeous! The magic is in the details. We’re talking about a flaky, golden crust embracing a savory, juicy beef filling bursting with flavor. These aren’t just any beef empanadas; they’re an Argentine taste adventure. We use a special blend of spices and herbs, coupled with tender beef, and bake (or fry!) them to golden perfection. Each bite is a fiesta in your mouth, making them utterly irresistible. Seriously, try stopping at just one!

Can I prepare these Argentine Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, preparing them in advance can be a lifesaver for busy folks. You can make the dough and the filling a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the empanadas right before baking or frying. You can even freeze assembled, unbaked empanadas. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for parties or a make-ahead weeknight meal. Imagine pulling these out on a Tuesday – instant hero status!

What dipping sauce goes well with Argentine Beef Empanadas?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! A classic chimichurri sauce, vibrant and tangy, is a fantastic choice, the herbal notes really complementing the savory beef. A spicy tomato salsa will add a fiery kick. For something creamy, try a garlic aioli. Or, embrace simplicity with a squeeze of fresh lime. Don’t be afraid to experiment – find your perfect match! I have a personal preference for a mild creamy chipotle sauce, but you do you!

Are there any variations I can make to this Argentine Beef Empanadas recipe?

Definitely! While the classic beef filling is a winner, feel free to get creative. Try adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, olives, or raisins for a more traditional twist. You could also swap the beef for seasoned ground turkey or shredded chicken. For vegetarians, try a filling of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, corn, and black beans. And if you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat. Remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own!