International Cuisine > Argentine Cuisine > Main Dishes (Argentine) > Empanadas Recipe (Argentine Fillings)
Authentic Argentine Beef Empanadas
Learn how to make traditional Argentine beef empanadas from scratch. This recipe features a flavorful filling and a flaky crust, perfect for a taste of Argentina at home.
Empanadas are a staple in Argentine cuisine, often enjoyed as appetizers or a light meal. The dough is relatively simple to make, and the filling can be customized to your preferences. This recipe focuses on the classic beef filling, seasoned with spices and herbs.
Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Salt
- 200 g Cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 150-200 ml Ice water
- 500 g Ground beef
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 Red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 50 g Green olives, chopped
- 30 g Raisins (optional)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Oregano
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional)
- 100 ml Beef broth
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Making the Empanada Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Beef Filling
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Add the beef broth and simmer until the liquid has mostly evaporated, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, green olives, and raisins (if using).
Assembling the Empanadas
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the empanada dough to about 3mm (⅛ inch) thickness.
3. Use a round cutter or a bowl (about 10-12 cm/4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
4. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Moisten the edges of the dough with water or egg wash.
6. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
7. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush the empanadas with beaten egg.
Baking the Empanadas
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of chimichurri sauce or salsa criolla. Empanadas are also great on their own or as part of a larger meal. You can freeze baked empanadas for a later meal.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
FAQ
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Can I freeze these empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked empanadas. To freeze unbaked empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. To freeze baked empanadas, let them cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven or microwave. -
Can I use a different type of filling?
Absolutely! Empanadas are very versatile. You can use chicken, pork, vegetables, or even cheese as a filling. Adjust the seasonings accordingly. -
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap. -
What can I use instead of egg wash?
Milk or cream can be used as an egg wash substitute. You can also brush the empanadas with melted butter or olive oil for a golden finish.