Are you craving a delicious, savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these mouthwatering beef empanadas! Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or just looking for a tasty snack, these empanadas are sure to impress. With a perfectly seasoned beef filling encased in a flaky, almond flour crust, these empanadas offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for more.
Why You’ll Love These Beef Empanadas
Beef empanadas are a classic Latin American dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. These little pockets of goodness are not only incredibly delicious but also versatile and easy to make. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. Savory Beef Filling: The ground beef is cooked to perfection with a medley of spices, fresh cilantro, and vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful filling that’s both satisfying and delicious.
2. Flaky Almond Flour Crust: The almond flour crust is a fantastic gluten-free alternative to traditional dough. It’s tender, flaky, and pairs beautifully with the savory beef filling.
3. Easy to Make: With a few simple steps and ingredients, these empanadas are easy to prepare and bake, making them perfect for any skill level in the kitchen.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a family-friendly dinner, or just need a tasty snack, these empanadas are versatile enough to fit any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious beef empanadas, gather the following ingredients:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the show, providing a rich and hearty base.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped: Adds a subtle crunch and sweetness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Adds richness and a slight tang.
- 1 tbsp chili powder: For a touch of warmth and spice.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps to meld the flavors and create a cohesive filling.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness and brightness.
For the Almond Flour Crust:
- 2 cups almond flour: Provides a gluten-free, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust.
- 1/4 cup cold butter, small pieces: Creates a flaky texture.
- 1 large egg: Helps to bind the dough and adds richness.
- 1 tbsp cold water: To help form the dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your empanadas.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling
- 1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef along with 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft.
- 2. Add 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- 3.Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Almond Flour Crust
- 1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups almond flour and 1/2 tsp salt.
- 2. Cut in 1/4 cup cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 3. Add 1 large egg and 1 tbsp cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time.
4. Assemble the Empanadas
- 1.On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- 2.Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, approximately 4 inches in diameter.
- 3.Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
- 4.Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
5. Bake the Empanadas
- 1.Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 2.Brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- 3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect on their own or with a side of your favorite salsa or dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Empanadas
• Cool the Filling: Make sure the beef filling is cooled before adding it to the dough. This will prevent the dough from becoming too soft and sticky.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the empanadas. Too much filling can cause the empanadas to burst open while baking.
• Seal Well: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to keep the filling inside during baking.
Variations and Add-Ins
Feel free to get creative with your empanadas! Here are a few ideas to customize your recipe:
• Cheesy Empanadas: Add shredded cheese to the beef filling for a gooey, cheesy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the beef filling for an extra kick of spice.
Conclusion
These delicious beef empanadas are sure to become a family favorite. With their savory beef filling and flaky almond flour crust, they offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these empanadas are versatile and crowd-pleasing.
