Easy Beef Empanadas With Flour Tortillas: A Foolproof Recipe For Beginners!

Indulge in the tantalizing world of empanadas, where savory fillings are enveloped in golden-brown pastry. This blog post will take you on a culinary journey, revealing the secrets to crafting delectable beef empanadas using flour tortillas. From the perfect dough to the mouthwatering filling, we’ll guide you through each step, ensuring your empanadas become a culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients for the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup ice water

Ingredients for the Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup beef broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork the dough.

Making the Filling

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the cilantro and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced by half.

Assembling the Empanadas

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle.
2. Cut the dough into 12 equal triangles.
3. Place a heaping spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each triangle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle.
5. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Cooking the Empanadas

1. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F.
2. Carefully drop the empanadas into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the empanadas on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• For a flaky crust, keep the dough cold at all times.
• Do not overfill the empanadas, or they will burst during frying.
• If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can bake the empanadas at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Variations

• Try different fillings, such as chicken, cheese, or vegetables.
• Add cheese to the filling for a gooey surprise.
• Top the empanadas with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for a fresh and crunchy touch.

The Perfect Pairing

Empanadas are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pair them with a refreshing salad, a flavorful soup, or a cold beverage for a satisfying meal.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use pre-made flour tortillas for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made flour tortillas, but they may not be as flaky as homemade dough.

Q: Can I freeze the empanadas?
A: Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before or after frying. To freeze before frying, place the uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 months. To freeze after frying, let the empanadas cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I reheat the empanadas?
A: To reheat frozen empanadas, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.