Empanadas are a classic dish hailing from Argentina that are beloved for their crispy, golden crust and flavorful fillings. They are the perfect bite-sized snack or meal, making them a versatile addition to any menu. Baking them in the oven instead of frying reduces the mess while still achieving that satisfying crunch. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating delicious Baked Empanadas that are sure to impress your family and friends.
**Baked Empanadas Argentina Food**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)
– Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Slowly add the cold water, a little at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
3. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
6. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.
7. Stir in the chopped olives, raisins, and hard-boiled egg. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
8. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small plate to cut out circles of dough.
9. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-circle shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
10. Transfer the filled empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash for a shiny finish.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
These Baked Empanadas are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Argentine cuisine in every bite. With a buttery, flaky crust and a savory, spiced filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course served with a side salad or chimichurri sauce for a complete meal. Embrace the flavors of Argentina with this simple yet satisfying recipe that will transport your taste buds to South America.
