Best Easy On the Border Empanada Recipe
Empanadas are a delicious and popular dish in many Latin American countries. These savory pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings. One of the most beloved versions of empanadas is the On the Border style, which combines traditional Mexican flavors with a crispy, golden crust. If you’re craving these mouthwatering treats, here’s the best easy On the Border empanada recipe to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– ⅓ cup ice-cold water
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice-cold water, a tablespoon at a time, 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 skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
4. Preheat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
6. Place a spoonful of the ground beef mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Fold the other half of the dough circle over the filling and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanadas.
8. Carefully transfer the empanadas to the preheated oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
9. Serve the On the Border empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole.
Now, let’s address some common questions about this delicious On the Border empanada recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
A1: Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a meat substitute like tofu if you prefer.
Q2: Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?
A2: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the empanadas for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Q3: Can I make the dough in advance?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Q4: Are empanadas suitable for freezing?
A4: Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q5: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A5: Certainly! You can get creative and add diced bell peppers, corn, or olives to the filling to enhance the flavors.
Q6: Is the dough gluten-free?
A6: This specific recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Q7: Can I use pre-made empanada dough?
A7: Yes, if you’re short on time or prefer convenience, you can use pre-made empanada dough from the grocery store.
Q8: How do I store leftover empanadas?
A8: Place any leftover empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Q9: Can I make mini empanadas instead of regular-sized ones?
A9: Absolutely! Simply use a smaller cookie cutter or glass to cut out the dough circles and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Enjoy these delicious On the Border empanadas as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course. They are sure to impress your family and friends with their incredible flavors and crispy texture.