Creating delicious empanadas at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. These handheld savory pastries are perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. With a flaky crust and flavorful filling, homemade empanadas are sure to become a favorite in your household. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Easy Homemade Empanadas that are sure to impress your family and friends.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold water gradually, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the olives and hard-boiled eggs. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a small plate, cut out circles from the dough.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanadas.
6. Transfer the empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade empanadas!
Homemade empanadas are versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Get creative with different fillings such as shredded chicken, cheese, or vegetables. These empanadas make a delightful appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with a fresh salad. Experiment with shapes and sizes to create your unique twist on this classic dish. With this easy recipe, you’ll have a batch of flavorful empanadas ready to share and enjoy in no time.
