Empanada Homemade Kosher Recipe
Empanadas are essentially turnovers filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings. They are typically made with a dough that is folded over the filling and then baked or fried until golden and crispy. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.
To make kosher empanadas, you will need the following ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted margarine, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup ice water
For the filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or chicken, cooked and seasoned to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
To start, combine the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the margarine and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and ice water. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a little more ice water, a tablespoon at a time.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.
While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until they become soft and translucent. Add the cooked ground beef or chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Once the dough has rested, take it out of the refrigerator and divide it into small portions. Roll out each portion into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Place a spoonful of the filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Transfer the empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown.
Once they are done, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These homemade kosher empanadas are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. They can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
So, why not try your hand at making these delicious empanadas? With their crispy crust and flavorful filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a tasty treat, these homemade kosher empanadas are a fantastic choice.
