Shaved Beef Empanadas: An Amazing Way to Elevate Your Next Meal

Shaved beef empanadas are an amazing way to elevate any meal. Nothing quite compares to the delightful crunch of a freshly baked empanada crust surrounding juicy, delicious shredded beef. The dish is perfect for an evening meal, an appetizer, or as part of a larger Spanish-style meal.

Classic Shaved Beef Empanada Recipe

  • Ingredients:

    • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon of salt
    • 6 tablespoons of chilled butter
    • ¼ cup of vegetable shortening
    • 6-8 tablespoons of cold water
    • 2 tablespoons of vegetable or canola oil
    • 1 large onion, diced
    • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 1 bell pepper, diced
    • 2 pounds of shaved beef
    • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
    • ½ teaspoon of ground cumin

  • Instructions:

    1. To make the dough: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter and shortening using a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like cornmeal. Slowly add the cold water and stir until the dough is formed.
    2. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead it until it is smooth, and then shape it into a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
    3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until they are softened (about 5 minutes). Add the shaved beef and cook until it is browned (about 10 minutes).
    4. Add the chili powder, cumin, and any other desired seasonings. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    5. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    6. Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of dough about the size of the palm of your hand.
    7. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture on one half of each dough circle. Gently fold the other half over the mix and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Place the empanadas on the baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
    8. Remove the empanadas from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Conclusion:

Shaved beef empanadas are a delicious dish that can be served as a meal, an appetizer, or an accompaniment to other meals. With their crunchy crust and flavorful beef filling, these empanadas are sure to be a hit. With the simple ingredients and straightforward instructions listed above, you’ll be able to make this dish in no time at all. Enjoy!