Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a Mexican classic! These Dia de los Muertos Empanadas are not just a feast for the eyes; they are a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico. With a flaky, buttery crust enveloping a savory filling of seasoned ground beef and onions, each bite is a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the Day of the Dead. Whether you're honoring loved ones or simply craving something delicious, these empanadas are sure to impress. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create these mouthwatering treats that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 40 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 10 empanadas
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Add 1/2 cup of softened butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of water to the flour and butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Season the beef mixture with 1 teaspoon of cumin and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the filling cools.
- Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into 10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a circle about 6 inches in diameter on a floured surface.
- Place a generous tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the empanadas to burst while baking.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and then crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure they are well sealed.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with a beaten egg for a golden finish, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and flaky.
- Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Dia de los Muertos Empanadas warm!
Tips
- Perfect the Dough: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this will help achieve that flaky texture. If the dough feels too dry, don’t hesitate to add a little more water, but do it gradually.
- Chill for Success: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the texture of the empanadas. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Don’t Overfill: When adding the beef filling, remember that less is more! Overfilling can lead to bursting empanadas, so stick to a generous tablespoon per dough circle.
- Sealing is Key: Make sure to press the edges firmly together to seal in all the delicious flavors. Crimping with a fork adds a nice touch and reinforces the seal.
- Golden Finish: For a beautiful golden crust, brush the tops of the empanadas with a beaten egg before baking. This simple step will elevate their appearance and taste.
- Serve Warm: These empanadas are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve them warm for the ultimate experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 65mg
