Spicy Meat and Potato Empanadas

Spicy Meat and Potato Empanadas - A Delicious Latin American Treat
Spicy Meat and Potato Empanadas are a popular Latin American dish that is loved by many. These savory pastries are filled with a delicious mixture of ground beef, potatoes, and spices, making them a perfect snack or meal. In this recipe, we will show you how to make these mouth-watering empanadas from scratch.
Ingredients (for 6 servings):

For the dough:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup cold water

For the filling:

- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure the butter is chilled before using it in the dough. This will help create a flaky texture.
- Don't overfill the empanadas, or they may burst open during baking.
- Brush the empanadas with egg wash before baking to give them a golden brown color.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the diced potatoes, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
7. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a 4-inch cookie cutter.
8. Spoon a tablespoon of the filling onto each circle of dough. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
9. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Appearance and Taste:
Spicy Meat and Potato Empanadas are a delicious and satisfying treat that are perfect for any occasion. The golden brown crust is flaky and buttery, while the filling is savory and spicy. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and spices creates a flavorful and hearty filling that is sure to please. These empanadas are a great appetizer or main dish and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Type of Dish: Savory Pastry
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Potatoes, Spices