Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 120g cold butter (cut into cubes)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup cold water (approx.)
For the Filling:
- 300g minced meat (beef or chicken)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Optional: olives or boiled eggs (chopped)
- Optional: chopped parsley
For Brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl:
- Mix flour, salt, and sugar
Add cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour using your fingers until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs.
Add the egg and mix lightly.
Gradually add cold water while mixing until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough—it should be soft but not sticky.
Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the dough become flaky.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and cook until soft. Then add garlic and cook briefly.
Add minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Season with:
- Paprika
- Black pepper
- Cumin
- Salt
Cook until the mixture is well combined and slightly dry.
Turn off heat and let it cool completely.
Optional: Add chopped parsley, olives, or boiled eggs for extra flavor.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
Take the chilled dough and divide it into smaller portions.
Roll out each portion into a thin sheet (about 2–3 mm thick).
Use a round cutter or bowl to cut circles (about 10–12 cm diameter).
Step 4: Fill and Shape
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to form a نصف دائرة (half-moon shape).
Press the edges together firmly.
Seal the edges by:
- Pressing with a fork
or - Folding the edges (crimping) for a decorative look
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Place the empanadas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Mix egg yolk with milk and brush the tops. This gives them a shiny golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until:
- Golden brown
- Slightly crispy on top
Step 7: Serve
Let them cool slightly before serving.
Serve with:
- Chili sauce
- Garlic sauce
- Yogurt dip
They taste amazing both warm and at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Empanadas
1. Use Cold Butter
This creates a flaky texture.
2. Don’t Overfill
Too much filling will break the dough.
3. Seal Well
Prevent filling from leaking during baking.
4. Cool the Filling
Hot filling softens the dough and makes it hard to shape.
Variations
1. Cheese Empanadas
Use mozzarella + herbs instead of meat.
2. Chicken Version
Use shredded chicken with spices.
3. Tuna Version
Mix tuna with onion and cheese.
4. Sweet Version
Fill with chocolate or apple cinnamon.
Storage Tips
- Store in fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven for best texture
- Can be frozen before baking
Nutritional Info (Approximate per piece)
- Calories: 250–300
- Protein: 10–15g
- Carbs: 20–25g
- Fat: 12–15g
Final Thoughts
These homemade empanadas are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. They are easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Once you try them, you’ll see how simple and satisfying homemade pastries can be.