Step into the world of Argentine cuisine as we embark on a gastronomic adventure to create the beloved Argentine Empanadas—a savory delight that captivates hearts and palates alike. Let's dive into this culinary journey to savor these flavorful treats:
INGREDIENTS:
For the Dough:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup cold water
For the Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
– 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Crafting the Empanadas:
Preparing the Dough:
1. In a harmonious bowl, combine the flour and salt, inviting the cold, cubed butter to join the mix. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, coax the butter into the flour until it embodies a delightful crumbly texture.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and cold water together. Gradually infuse this amalgamation into the flour mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Tread lightly on a floured surface, kneading the dough into a harmonious whole. Envelop it in plastic wrap and allow it to rest in the cool embrace of the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preparing it for its delicious destiny.
Crafting the Filling:
1. In a skillet, orchestrate the culinary symphony by cooking the ground beef until it dons a luscious brown hue. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper, allowing their melodies to soften and intertwine.
2. Infuse the ensemble with the chopped hard-boiled eggs, green olives, raisins, ground cumin, paprika, and the enigmatic interplay of salt and pepper. Let this tantalizing mixture dance for 2-3 minutes, weaving flavors into a crescendo of savory delight. Set it aside to cool, ready to be embraced by the dough.
Empanada Assembly:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with the embrace of parchment paper.
2. On a floured surface, unfurl the chilled dough into a tapestry of 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or the gentle contour of a small plate to carve out circles from the dough—a canvas for the forthcoming filling.
3. Tenderly nestle a spoonful of the prepared meat filling at the heart of each dough circle, inviting flavors to meld and create a savory story.
4. Embrace each circle, folding it over to fashion a half-moon shape. Seal this savory tale by crimping the edges with the gentle touch of a fork, securing the symphony within.
These Argentine Empanadas are more than a dish; they're a celebration of culture and flavor, a savory treasure waiting to be savored and shared with friends and family alike.
