Craving Colombian Cuisine? Learn How to Cook Beef Empanadas Like a Pro

Empanadas, the golden-brown pastries filled with savory ingredients, hold a special place in Colombian cuisine. These delightful treats are a cherished street food, enjoyed at gatherings, and served as a symbol of Colombian culinary heritage. If you’re eager to recreate these delectable bites at home, follow our comprehensive guide on how to make Colombian beef empanadas.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

For Egg Wash and Frying:

• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Add the vegetable oil and knead for an additional minute.
5. Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
2. Add the onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the beef broth and tomato paste and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced.

3. Assemble the Empanadas

1. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions.
2. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
3. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-circle.
5. Crimp the edges of the dough to seal.

4. Egg Wash and Fry

1. Preheat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F.
2. Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg.
3. Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Drain the empanadas on paper towels.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Colombian beef empanadas warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce, such as aji or salsa.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Use a sharp knife to finely chop the vegetables for the filling.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas, as this can make them difficult to seal.
• Crimp the edges of the empanadas firmly to prevent them from opening during frying.
• Fry the empanadas in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
• Serve the empanadas immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Variations on the Recipe

• Vegetarian Empanadas: Replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or tofu.
• Spicy Empanadas: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling.
• Cheese Empanadas: Add shredded cheese to the filling for a gooey and flavorful twist.
• Baked Empanadas: Bake the empanadas at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

The Culinary Legacy of Empanadas

Colombian beef empanadas have a rich history, tracing their roots back to Spain. Over time, they have evolved into a beloved national dish, reflecting the diverse flavors of Colombian cuisine. Today, empanadas are enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, serving as a symbol of Colombian culinary pride and hospitality.

Common Questions and Answers

1. What is the best flour to use for empanadas?
All-purpose flour is the most commonly used flour for empanadas, as it provides a good balance of texture and flavor.

2. Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze empanadas before or after frying. Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

3. How can I reheat empanadas?
You can reheat empanadas in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.