Empanadas – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Argentina Region / Locale: Argentine Servings: Serves 4-6
Argentina Region / Locale: Argentine Servings: Serves 4-6Empanadas, a culinary staple enjoyed across Latin America and Spain, are delightful pastry pockets filled with a variety of ingredients. Originating from Galicia, Spain, these savory pies were spread by Spanish colonizers to the Americas where they adapted to local tastes and ingredients. Today, they can be filled with anything from meats and cheeses to vegetables and fruits, making them versatile and universally loved.
Ingredients
- all-purpose flour – 3 cups / 360 g
- unsalted butter – 1/2 cup / 115 g
- egg – 1
- water – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- ground beef – 1 lb / 450 g
- onion – 1 cup / 150 g, chopped
- red bell pepper – 1/2 cup / 75 g, chopped
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- ground cumin – 1 tsp / 5 g
- smoked paprika – 1 tsp / 5 g
- green olives – 1/4 cup / 40 g, chopped
- hard-boiled eggs – 2, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by mixing flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut butter into small cubes and mix with flour until crumbly. Beat the egg with water and add to the flour mixture. Knead till smooth and divide into two disks. Wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper, sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika. Cook until meat is browned. Mix in olives and chopped eggs. Allow filling to cool.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out dough and cut into 4-inch circles.
- Place a tablespoon of filling on each circle, fold, and crimp edges to seal.
- Transfer empanadas to a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Serve warm.
Substitutions
- ground beef -> ground turkey
- red bell pepper -> green bell pepper
- all-purpose flour -> gluten-free flour
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Incorporate a marinade for the beef to enhance flavor complexity.
- Use a combination of ground meats for a richer taste profile.
- Add a dipping sauce to complement the empanadas.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
