Title: How to Make Homemade Argentine Empanadas: A Simple Guide
There are few things as quintessentially Argentine as the empanada. These little pockets of joy are a staple in Argentine cuisine and can be found from street corners in bustling Buenos Aires to countryside homes in the Pampas. Filled with a variety of ingredients, from spiced meats to sweet corn, empanadas are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. If you’ve ever wanted to bring a taste of Argentina into your kitchen, making homemade Argentine empanadas is the perfect way to start. Below is a simple guide to making these delightful treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 egg
– 1 egg white
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lard or butter
For the Filling:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
– 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying or an egg wash for baking
Step by Step Guide
Making the Dough:
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the lard or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, egg, and egg white. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
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Knead and Rest: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for at least an hour.
Preparing the Filling:
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Cook the Beef: In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they become translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Combine Ingredients: Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, mix in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, olives, and raisins if using.
Shaping the Empanadas:
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Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). On a floured surface, roll out each ball into a circle about 5-6 inches in diameter.
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Fill and Seal: Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, and press the edges to seal. For an authentic touch, you can crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork.
Cooking the Empanadas:
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To Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a golden color. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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To Fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas in batches, turning once, until they are golden brown. It should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serving Your Empanadas:
Serve your homemade Argentine empanadas hot, accompanied by a side of chimichurri sauce or simply on their own. They’re perfect for a family dinner, a party snack, or even just a delicious treat to enjoy whenever you want a taste of Argentina.
Final Thoughts
Making empanadas at home is a simple process that yields incredibly flavorful and comforting results. By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a piece of Argentine culinary tradition right in your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with the fillings—chicken, cheese, and vegetable stuffing are also popular options. The beauty of empanadas is that they can cater to a wide range of tastes, making them a universal delight.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something different, why not take a culinary trip to Argentina by making these delicious homemade Argentine empanadas? Buen provecho!
