Enjoy the authentic flavors of Latin America with this homemade empanadas recipe. With a flaky and buttery pastry dough filled with a savory meat and vegetable filling, these empanadas are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create this classic dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/2 cup ice water
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until a dough forms. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the olives, raisins, and parsley. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out circles using a round cutter.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg wash and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy. Serve hot and enjoy!
