Empanadas de carne (beef empanadas)

empanadas_de_carne_(beef_empanadas)

Empanadas are a popular dish that originated in Spain and then spread to Latin American countries, including Colombia. These delicious hand-held pastries are made by stuffing dough with a variety of fillings, including meat, cheese, vegetables, and fruit. The most popular empanadas filling in Colombia is beef, and they are known as empanadas de carne.

Colombian empanadas de carne are a versatile and easy-to-make snack that can be enjoyed at any time of day. They are perfect as an appetizer or a light lunch, and they are a great way to pack in some extra protein and vegetables. While empanadas de carne are a classic Colombian recipe, they have also become a beloved staple in many other Latin American countries.

The empanadas are made with a savory, flaky dough that is stuffed with a flavorful beef filling. The beef filling is generally a mixture of ground beef, potatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder. This mixture is then fried until golden brown, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful filling.

Making empanadas de carne is a traditional process that has been passed down through generations of Colombian families. Each family may have their unique twist on the recipe, but the basic ingredients and process remain the same. The dough is typically made from cornmeal, flour, salt, and water, while the filling can be customized to suit your tastes. This allows for a lot of creativity when making empanadas de carne.

Empanadas de carne are not only delicious, but they are also a great way to showcase Colombia’s rich culinary heritage. The dish has been around for centuries and has undergone many changes as it moved from one culture to another. Today, Colombian empanadas de carne are enjoyed all over the world and can be found at food stalls and restaurants in many different countries.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, making empanadas de carne is a straightforward process that is sure to delight your taste buds. The ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe can be adjusted to suit your needs. Additionally, empanadas can be made in advance and frozen, making them a convenient snack or meal whenever you need them.

In conclusion, empanadas de carne are a delicious and versatile Colombian dish that showcases the country’s culinary heritage. The dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit your preference, making it a popular snack and meal all over the world. So, the recipe for empanadas de carne is a must-try for any food enthusiasts who want to experience the taste of Colombia.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 3 cups of pre-cooked or precooked corn flour (masa harina)
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or butter

For the beef filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 large tomato, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For frying:

  • Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, salt, and shortening/butter. Gradually add water until the mixture forms a smooth dough.

  2. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

  3. While the dough is resting, prepare the beef filling. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until soft.

  4. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Add chopped tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until everything is well combined. Cover and set aside.

  5. Divide the dough into small balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and flatten them into small disks.

  6. Place a spoonful of filling in the middle of each disk.

  7. Fold the disk in half and pinch the edges to seal the empanada.

  8. Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Once hot, start frying empanadas in batches of 2-4 until they turn golden brown.

  9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the empanadas from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

  10. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!