How to make authentic Colombian beef empanadas

Every element of this recipe— from the flaky dough to the aromatic cumin and paprika in the filling— blends seamlessly to create an authentic flavor. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or a simple snack, these empanadas are best served warm, straight out of the fryer. By following this recipe, you’ll achieve that crispy texture and irresistible flavor that makes them a standout favorite.

Table of Contents

• Why Authentic Colombian Beef Empanadas Fit Your Busy Life
• Everything You Need for Authentic Colombian Beef Empanadas
• How to Make Authentic Colombian Beef Empanadas Step by Step
• Easy Ingredient Swaps for the Perfect Empanadas
• Storing and Reheating Your Empanadas
• What to Serve With These Colombian Empanadas
• Expert Tips for Foolproof Colombian Empanadas

Why Authentic Colombian Beef Empanadas Fit Your Busy Life

• Quick to prepare in under an hour, these empanadas make an excellent weeknight treat. Their simple process—from prepping the dough to frying them—fits easily into even the busiest schedules.
• The combination of beef and potato filling is both satisfying and nutrient-dense. This recipe provides a filling snack or meal option that keeps you energized throughout the day.
• The empanadas’ crispy texture holds up well when reheated, making them perfect for meal prep. Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy them as a snack or side dish whenever you crave something savory.
• Using pantry staples like all-purpose flour, butter, and spices, this recipe is as economical as it is flavorful. No need for complicated ingredients—just everyday items you likely already have.

Everything You Need for Authentic Colombian Beef Empanadas

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

The combination of cumin and paprika in the filling gives these empanadas their signature warm and smoky flavor. Cold butter in the dough ensures a tender and flaky texture, essential for achieving perfect results when fried.

How to Make Authentic Colombian Beef Empanadas Step by Step

1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix with your hands or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   2. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead gently for about 1 minute until smooth, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
   3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir regularly to prevent sticking.
   4. Add the diced potato, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potato is tender. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool.

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1. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out 4- to 5-inch diameter circles.
2. Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture into the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for added security.
3. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the empanadas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove the empanadas from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Easy Ingredient Swaps for the Perfect Empanadas

• If you’re out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken work well as substitutes. Keep in mind that turkey and chicken have a milder flavor, so you may want to increase the cumin or paprika slightly.
• No fresh potatoes? Use frozen diced potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist. Just ensure they’re cooked through before adding.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with chilled coconut oil. This provides a similar flaky texture while keeping the dough vegan-friendly.

Storing and Reheating Your Empanadas

To store, allow the empanadas to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If freezing, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking.

For reheating, use an oven or toaster oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy and compromise the original crispiness.

What to Serve With These Colombian Empanadas

• Aji sauce: This tangy and spicy Colombian salsa is a traditional accompaniment to empanadas.
• Fresh avocado slices: The creaminess of ripe avocado pairs wonderfully with the crispy empanada crust.
• Pickled red onions: Their zesty flavor cuts through the richness of the beef filling.
• Colombian hot chocolate: A warm, sweet drink offers a comforting contrast to the savory empanadas.

Expert Tips for Foolproof Colombian Empanadas

• Ensure your butter and water are cold when making the dough. This helps create a flaky crust by preventing the butter from melting too early.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas. Overstuffing can cause the dough to tear or make sealing difficult.
• Maintain a consistent oil temperature of about 350°F while frying. This ensures even cooking without leaving the empanadas greasy.
• Let the filling cool completely before assembling. Hot filling can make the dough harder to seal properly.