How to do the best Colombian empanada beef recipe
I want to share with you a good Colombian beef empanada recipe. You can make it simple or add details it is up to you. The idea is to have fun making it. Cooking at home can be a nice experience you can do it by yourself or with someone else.
Some people like to follow recipes step by step. Some people like to try new things. Both ways are fine. Here I am showing you the way of making Colombian empanadas and then you can decide if you want to keep it classic or add your own touch.
The best part is that the ingredients are easy to find and the result is always worth it.
Key Ingredients
There are ways to make beef empanadas. Some people use ground beef. Some people use shredded beef. Both are good. For this recipe we will mainly use ground beef.
These ingredients are not complicated they are basic but together they give a really good flavor.
Here is what you need:
* 500 grams of ground beef
* 6 potatoes
* 1 bunch of onions
* 2 red onions
* 2 white onions
* 2 tomatoes
* 1 red bell pepper
* 3 garlic cloves
* Paprika
* Cumin
* Salt
* Pepper
* Pre-cooked corn flour
Kitchen Tools
Before you start it helps to have everything. You will need:
* A medium pot
* A mixing bowl
* A cutting board
* A timer
* A Ziploc bag
Preparing the Filling
- Start by chopping all the vegetables into pieces: onions, tomatoes, bell pepper and garlic cloves. The smaller you cut them the better the flavor mixes later.
- In a pot add a bit of oil. Let it heat up. Then add all the vegetables. Cook them on medium heat for about 5-6 minutes. You want them soft and slightly golden. Add salt and pepper to start building flavor.
- Once that is ready add the ground beef. Season it with paprika, cumin and a bit more salt if needed. Mix everything well. Cook until the meat is fully done. Try not to overcook it you want it juicy.
- At the time cook the potatoes in another pot with water, a little salt and a bit of oil. Once they are soft drain them. Mash them into a smooth puree.
- Now mix the mashed potatoes with the beef. This is what gives the filling that texture. Taste it. Adjust salt if needed.
Making the Dough
In a bowl add 600 grams of -cooked corn flour. Slowly add 260 ml of warm water. Then add one and a half tablespoons of oil and one tablespoon of salt.
Mix everything until you get a dough that feels soft but not sticky. If it sticks to your hands add a little flour. If it feels too dry add a bit water.
It should be easy to shape without breaking.
Shaping the Empanadas
- This is the part. Take pieces of dough and roll them into balls. Place each one on a Ziploc bag. Flatten it into a circle.
- Add a spoon of empanada beef filling in the center then fold it in half.
- Use a fork to press the edges and close them well so they do not open when frying.
- Keep going until you finish all the dough and Colombian empanada beef filling.
Frying
- Heat vegetable oil in a pot for 7 minutes.
- Once it is hot carefully add the empanadas. Let them fry until they turn golden on one side then flip them to cook the side.
- When they are nice and crispy take them out. Place them on paper towels to remove extra oil and they are ready to eat .
Why This Colombian Empanada Beef Recipe Is So Versatile
One thing I like about this empanada beef recipe is how flexible it is. You can make a lot. Share them or just keep them for yourself.If you have leftovers you can store them in airtight bags. Freeze them and cook them later.
You can also change the empanada beef filling if you want. Chicken, cheese or even vegetables work well. Once you learn the base you can really play with it.
What to Serve with Colombian EmpanadasYou can keep it simple with drinks. Water, juice or soda all work.
If you are in Colombia you should try them with Pony Malta.For sauces people usually add lemon, guacamole, ketchup, mayo or pink sauce.The one that really matters is ají. That spicy sauce gives Colombian empanadas their flavor.
Conclusion
At the end of the day making Colombian empanadas is more than following a recipe. It is something you can enjoy from start to finish. From chopping the ingredients to frying them and finally eating them the whole process feels very rewarding.
It is also a recipe that brings people together. You can make Colombian empanadas with family, friends or just, for yourself when you want something homemade and comforting. It does not have to be perfect. The important part is enjoying what you are doing and learning along the way.
Another nice thing is that once you try it it gets easier every time. You start understanding the dough adjusting the flavors and maybe even creating your own version. That is what makes cooking fun.So take your time with it do not stress much and just enjoy the process. In the end you will have something to eat and that always makes it worth it.