Do you like traditional empanadas or want to try something new? Try these delicious and authentic Empanadas with Argentine Picadillo! They are the perfect way to add culture to your next meal. Tender beef, onions, green olives, and boiled eggs fill each pastry. It is a delicious combination and a balance of flavors. Try a batch today and experience the flavors of Latin cuisine!
What is an Empanada?
Empanada is from the Spanish verb “empanar,” which means “to wrap or encase in bread.” Most cultures have some form of stuffed bread or pastry. Cornish pasties, Italian calzones, and Indian samosas are well-known examples. Although the filling may be different, no matter what you call them, they are always delicious.
Empanadas are a favorite because they are so versatile. They can be a snack or the focus of an entire meal. They are also portable enough to go with every activity.
Are you looking for a tasty, filling meal with a punch of flavor? For something unique, try Empanadas with Argentine Picadillo. This recipe features pastry filled with a delicious blend of savory ingredients. Green olives and boiled eggs give the filling a unique flavor. Sweet and salty come together perfectly in this dish. Every bite is a mouthwatering experience. These empanadas transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Latin America.
Empanadas in the Midwest
I recently tried empanadas with beef picadillo from a small restaurant. They were hands down the best empanadas I have ever had. The pastry was crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The filling packed extensive flavor. Each bite was bursting with savory notes of ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices. The tangy olives and hearty hard-boiled eggs made these empanadas different.
But what set these empanadas apart was the attention to detail in the preparation. The restaurant took pride in its craft, and it showed. The empanadas had a generous amount of filling. There was plenty of flavor in every bite. The seasoning was spot on, with the right amount of heat that did not overwhelm the palate. An egg wash made the pastry a beautiful golden brown. They were a sight to behold.
Empanadas with Argentine Picadillo are delicious and authentic. I highly recommend them to anyone who appreciates Latin food. Do not hesitate to try them. Your taste buds will thank you!
Empanadas with Argentine Picadillo Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or Maseca
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter
- 1-large egg
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1-medium chopped yellow onion
- 2-cloves minced garlic
- 1-medium chopped bell pepper
- 1-seeded, chopped jalapeno
- 2 tbsp. chopped green onion
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- ¼ cup pitted finely chopped green olives
- 2-diced hard-boiled eggs
- ½ cup small-diced boiled potato
- salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Empanadas with Argentine Picadillo
Make the Dough:
- Add flour and salt to a food processor and pulse to incorporate.
- Add the cold butter in cubes and continue pulsing until the butter is the size of peas.
- Add the egg and cold water to the flour mixture and pulse until the dough pulls away from the side and forms a ball.
- Wrapped the dough in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Make the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, jalapeno, and peppers and cook until softened and browned.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add the tomato paste and stir until incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the olives and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the eggs, green onion, and potato.
- Cool for 30 minutes.
Assemble the Empanadas:
- Divide the chilled dough into 12 balls.
- Roll each ball into a 5-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Place ¼ cup of the filling on the dough and carefully fold it in half.
- Flute the edges or crimp them with a fork to seal them.
Cook the Empanadas:
- Bake the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with fresh sour cream, guacamole, or Chimichurri sauce.
Empanadas with Argentine Picadillo Recipe Tips
So, what are some tips for making the perfect empanadas with picadillo?
Choose the Best Pastry:
When making empanadas from scratch, choose a dough that will hold up well to filling and baking. Cut the dough into rounds of equal thickness. Alternatively, you can use pre-made empanada wrappers or pie crust. They are available at many grocery stores.
Make a Flavorful Filling:
Picadillo is a delicious mix of ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. For the best results, use plenty of vegetables. Add spices to give the filling depth and flavor.
Do not Overfill the Empanadas:
Be careful to fill the empanadas appropriately. Too much filling can cause them to burst open during cooking. There is a balance between pastry and filling.
Get Creative with the Toppings:
Traditionally, a simple tomato sauce accompanies empanadas. There are plenty of other toppings you can try. Add shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and richness.
Experiment with Different Fillings:
While picadillo is a classic empanada filling, plenty of other options are available. Use chicken or pork instead of beef. Make a vegetarian filling with beans, cheese, and vegetables.
Serve Favorite Sides:
Empanadas are delicious by themselves. But they also pair well with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice and beans. For a dipping sauce, try Chimichurri or Lime Crema.
If you are starting in the kitchen, empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make meal. They will become a favorite. You can quickly whip up a batch of these tasty treats with these simple tips and creativity!
Other Empanada Recipes
Are you tired of the same old empanadas with picadillo filling? Do not worry. Here are some delicious and creative alternatives.
Empanadas with Spinach and Cheese:
The creamy cheese perfectly complements the earthy flavors of the spinach. It makes for a satisfying and hearty bite.
Spicy Chicken Empanadas:
Do you want something with a bit more kick? This filling is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals. The savory chicken mixes with crunchy peppers and spicy jalapenos. It is a fiery and delicious empanada.
Fruit Empanadas:
If you are in the mood for something sweet, try a fruit empanada. Think chopped apples with cinnamon and sugar or bananas with caramel sauce. These dessert empanadas are a perfect way to end any meal on a sweet note.
Breakfast Empanadas:
This filling has scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese. It is perfect for a lazy Sunday morning brunch or a grab-and-go breakfast on busy weekdays.
Empanadas are great, but be bold and try something new. With these delicious alternatives, you will never get bored of empanadas again.
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