Beef Empanadas With Red Pepper Goat Cheese Swirl

Craving a taste of Latin American comfort food? Look no further! These Beef Empanadas with Red Pepper Goat Cheese Swirl are a delightful explosion of savory and tangy flavors, all wrapped in a perfectly flaky, golden-brown crust. This recipe combines a richly seasoned beef filling with a creamy, vibrant swirl of roasted red pepper and goat cheese, creating an empanada experience that’s truly unforgettable. Perfect as an appetizer, a light meal, or a party snack, these empanadas are sure to impress. Let’s get baking!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredient List

• 250 g (2 cups) All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our flaky pastry. All-purpose flour provides the perfect balance of protein for structure and tenderness.
• 1 tsp (5 g) Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough and contributes to gluten development, resulting in a more robust crust.
• 150 g (2/3 cup) Unsalted Butter, Cold and Cubed: Crucial for creating a flaky texture. The cold butter creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in those desirable layers. Ensure it’s *very* cold!
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) Ice Water: Keeps the butter cold while bringing the dough together. Using ice water prevents the gluten from overdeveloping, leading to a tender crust.
• 1 Egg, Lightly Beaten: Used for an egg wash, which gives the empanadas a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish.
• 400 g (14 oz) Halal Ground Beef: The star of our savory filling! Using halal ground beef ensures a quality and ethically sourced protein.
• 1 Medium Onion, Finely Diced (about 150 g / 1 cup): Provides a foundational aromatic base for the filling. Dicing finely ensures it cooks evenly and blends seamlessly into the beef.
• 2 Garlic Cloves, Minced: Adds a pungent and savory depth to the filling. Freshly minced garlic is always best for maximum flavor.
• 1 tsp (5 g) Ground Cumin: A warm, earthy spice that’s a staple in Latin American cuisine. It adds a characteristic flavor to the beef filling.
• 1 tsp (5 g) Smoked Paprika: Imparts a smoky and slightly sweet flavor, adding complexity to the filling.
• ½ tsp (2 g) Chili Flakes (optional): For a touch of heat! Adjust the amount to your preference.
• 1 tsp (5 g) Dried Oregano: A classic herb that complements the beef and other spices beautifully.
• 200 g (7 oz) Canned Diced Tomatoes, Drained: Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the filling. Draining prevents the filling from becoming too watery.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, and for infusing with lime zest later.
• 2 tbsp (30 g) Pitted Green Olives, Sliced: Adds a salty and briny flavor that balances the richness of the beef.
• 2 tbsp (30 g) Golden Raisins (optional): Provides a touch of sweetness and chewiness. A traditional addition in some empanada recipes.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to Taste: Essential for seasoning the beef filling.
• 1 Large Roasted Red Bell Pepper, Skin Removed and Chopped (about 150 g / 1 cup): The key ingredient for our vibrant swirl! Roasting the pepper beforehand intensifies its sweetness and adds a smoky flavor.
• 100 g (3.5 oz) Soft Goat Cheese, Halal-Certified: Provides a tangy and creamy counterpoint to the savory beef. Using halal-certified goat cheese ensures adherence to dietary requirements.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Fresh Lime Juice: Brightens the flavor of the goat cheese swirl and adds a zesty kick.
• Pinch of Salt: Enhances the flavors in the goat cheese swirl.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) Olive Oil Infused with Zest of 1 Lime: Adds a fragrant and citrusy aroma to the finished empanadas.
• 2 tbsp (30 g) Fresh Cilantro Leaves, Chopped: A fresh and vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
• Zest of 1 Lime: For garnish, adding a bright citrus aroma and visual appeal.

Crafting the Perfect Empanada: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingertips (or a pastry blender), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for a flaky crust – the goal is to keep the butter cold and in small pieces.
2. Hydrate the Dough: Gradually drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing, as this will develop the gluten and result in a tough crust.
3. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making it easier to roll out.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: While the dough chills, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
6. Season the Filling: Sprinkle the ground beef with cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef evenly with the spices.
7. Simmer the Filling: Add the drained diced tomatoes, sliced olives, and golden raisins (if using) to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before assembling the empanadas.
8. Prepare the Red Pepper Goat Cheese Swirl: In a food processor, combine the chopped roasted red pepper, goat cheese, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until smooth and creamy. This swirl adds a delightful tang and creaminess to the empanadas. Keep chilled until ready to use.
9. Roll and Cut the Dough: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 3mm (⅛ inch) thickness. Use a 12cm (5-inch) cutter or a glass to cut out circles.
10. Assemble the Empanadas: Place a heaping tablespoon of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Top with a small dollop (about ½ teaspoon) of the red pepper goat cheese swirl.
11. Seal and Crimp: Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork to create a decorative and secure closure.
12. Egg Wash and Bake: Brush each empanada with the lightly beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color. Bake on the prepared baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and flaky.
13. Finish and Serve: While the empanadas bake, gently warm the lime-infused olive oil. Arrange the hot empanadas on a serving platter, drizzle with the lime-infused oil, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and a light dusting of lime zest. Serve warm.

The Magic of the Swirl: Why Red Pepper and Goat Cheese?

The addition of the roasted red pepper and goat cheese swirl isn’t just about flavor; it’s about balance. The sweetness of the roasted red pepper cuts through the richness of the beef, while the tangy goat cheese provides a creamy counterpoint. This combination elevates the empanada from a simple savory pastry to a complex and satisfying experience. The lime juice brightens the swirl, adding a zesty freshness that complements the other flavors.

Choosing the Right Beef for Empanadas

For the most flavorful beef empanadas, opt for halal ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (around 80/20). The fat adds moisture and richness to the filling. Halal beef ensures adherence to dietary requirements, and the quality of the beef significantly impacts the overall taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cuts of beef, but ground beef remains the most convenient and traditional choice.

Tips for a Flaky Empanada Crust

A flaky empanada crust is the hallmark of a well-made empanada. Here are a few key tips: use cold ingredients (butter and water), don’t overmix the dough, and chill the dough thoroughly before rolling. Rubbing the cold butter into the flour creates small pockets of fat that melt during baking, creating layers of flaky goodness. Handling the dough gently and avoiding overworking it prevents gluten development, resulting in a tender crust.

Serving Suggestions & Accompaniments

Beef empanadas are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Consider serving them with a vibrant chimichurri sauce, a cooling avocado crema, or a simple side salad. A spicy salsa adds a kick, while a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast. They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties or a satisfying lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and freeze them unbaked. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use store-bought empanada dough?

While homemade dough is recommended for the best flavor and texture, store-bought empanada dough can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to follow the package instructions.

What can I substitute for the raisins?

If you don’t like raisins, you can omit them or substitute them with chopped dates or dried cranberries.

Enjoy Your Homemade Beef Empanadas!

These Beef Empanadas with Red Pepper Goat Cheese Swirl are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. The combination of savory beef, sweet peppers, and tangy goat cheese is simply irresistible. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later!

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