How To Make Empanada?

Empanada is a popular dish in many Latin American countries. It is a savory pastry filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruits or chocolate. Empanadas can be baked or fried, and they are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. If you want to learn how to make empanada, follow the steps below.

Ingredients:

Before you start making empanada, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup ice-cold water
• 1 pound ground beef (or any other preferred filling)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice-cold water to the mixture, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the spices are fragrant.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sliced olives and raisins. Set the filling aside to cool.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into smaller portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
7. Place a spoonful of the filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, creating a semi-circle.
8. Use a fork to press the edges of the dough together, sealing the empanada. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
9. Place the empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg wash.
10. Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
11. Remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Now, you know how to make empanada! Enjoy these delicious pastries as a snack or a meal.