Argentine Empanadas: Savory Handheld Pies

 

Argentine Empanadas: Savory Handheld Pies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
• 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water), for brushing

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water and knead the dough until it comes together. Form it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
4. Add the ground beef (or mixture of ground beef and pork) and cook until it's browned and crumbled.
5. Stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, chopped green olives, raisins (if using), ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
8. Cut out rounds using a 4-5 inch round cutter (you can adjust the size to your preference).
9. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each round.
10. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, then crimp them with a fork.
11. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Argentine Empanadas are delicious handheld savory pies with a variety of fillings. They are popular throughout South America and make a great snack or meal. Enjoy! If you have more requests or questions, feel free to ask.