Beef Empanadas with Olives Recipe
If you’re searching for a flavorful dish that combines savory spices with a hint of brininess, then this recipe is perfect for you. Our focus today is on crafting an exquisite beef empanada seasoned with olives, a traditional dish that brings vibrant Latin flavors directly to your kitchen. The combination of seasoned beef and the rich taste of olives creates a comforting, yet exciting culinary experience.
Growing up, weekends at my grandmother’s house meant rolling out dough and stuffing it with aromatic fillings. The sizzle of browning beef on the stove mixed with chopped olives and spices has always been a memory etched in my heart. This recipe carries those precious family moments to your home, offering complex flavors interwoven with simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it offers more than just taste; it brings people together. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or potlucks. The crispy, golden pastry combined with the succulent beef filling is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile. You can make the filling ahead of time and freeze it for later use.
Ingredients Notes
You’ll need ground beef, olives, onions, and a selection of spices for this recipe. Make sure to choose a good quality ground beef that is fresh and has a good balance of lean meat to fat. For the olives, you can use either green or black, whatever suits your taste.
- Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance.
- Olives: Pitted and sliced; green olives will provide a sharper flavor, while black olives add a mellow sweetness.
- Pastry Dough: Pre-made or homemade; keep it chilled until ready to use.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Sauté diced onions in a pan over medium heat until translucent. This draws out their natural sweetness and forms the base flavor of your filling.
Step 2
Add the ground beef to the onions, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned evenly, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
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Step 3
Stir in chopped olives and your selected spices. Commonly used are smoked paprika and cumin for depth. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 4
Roll out your pastry dough on a floured surface, then cut into circles. Spoon the filling onto the center of each circle and fold over to enclose the filling. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Step 5
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a lined baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Storage Options
Leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze uncooked empanadas on a tray before transferring them to a zip-lock bag. Reheat at 350°F until hot for best results.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, swap the beef for lentils or finely chopped mushrooms. To add a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños in the filling. You can also experiment with different herbs like cilantro or oregano according to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent lean substitutes and will still absorb the flavors beautifully. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before sealing in the dough.
What can I serve with these empanadas? These empanadas go wonderfully with a side salad or a dipping sauce like chimichurri or garlic aioli. You can also complement them with fresh, tangy salsa for added zest.
Can I prepare them in advance? Yes, you can prepare the filling days in advance and assemble right before baking. You can also freeze them assembled and unbaked, allowing for a quick treat at a moment’s notice.
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Beef Empanadas with Olives Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef 80% lean
- 0.5 cup green olives sliced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 package empanada dough store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Stir in the sliced olives.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out empanada dough and cut into circles.
- Place a spoonful of beef mixture onto each dough circle, fold, and seal the edges.
- Arrange empanadas on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
