How To Make Beef Empanadas Puerto Rican Style: The Must-try Recipe For Authentic Flavor!

Craving a taste of Puerto Rico‘s culinary heritage? Empanadas, savory pastries filled with delectable fillings, are an iconic staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. If you’re eager to learn how to make beef empanadas Puerto Rican style, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the skills to create these mouthwatering treats in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/2 cup warm water

Ingredients for the Beef Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut the shortening into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture.
3. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the warm water gradually, mixing until the dough just comes together.
5. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Beef Filling:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
4. Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro.

Assembling the Empanadas:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out 4-inch circles from the dough.
4. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-circle.
6. Crimp the edges of the dough to seal the empanadas.

Baking the Empanadas:

1. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas:

• Use cold dough to prevent the empanadas from becoming tough.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas, or they will burst.
• If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use two knives to cut the shortening into the flour.
• Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or aioli.

Variations on the Beef Filling:

• Add cooked beans to the filling for a hearty twist.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Add chopped olives or raisins for a sweet and savory flavor.

Troubleshooting:

• If the empanadas are too dry, add a little more water to the dough.
• If the empanadas are too wet, add a little more flour to the dough.
• If the empanadas are bursting, you may have overfilled them.

Conclusion:

Congratulations on mastering the art of making Puerto Rican beef empanadas! With a little practice, you’ll become a pro at creating these delectable treats. Share your homemade empanadas with friends and family, and savor the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use store-bought dough for the empanadas?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought dough. However, homemade dough will give you a more authentic flavor and texture.

Q: How can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
A: You can make the empanadas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Q: Can I freeze the empanadas?
A: Yes, you can freeze the empanadas. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the empanadas overnight in the refrigerator and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.