Colombian empanadas are a variety of empanadas, or pasteles, that are popular in Colombian cuisine. They are made with a light, crispy dough of wheat flour, butter and water, which is filled with a variety of meat, chicken, vegetable or cheese options.
Colombian Empanadas
4
servings30
minutes20
minutesThe stuffing is usually seasoned with herbs and spices, and may include onions, peppers, tomatoes, among other ingredients.
Colombian empanadas are usually oven-baked and can be served hot or cold, and are commonly eaten as a side dish or as a snack.
Ingredients
2 cups of wheat flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
1/4 cup cold water
1/4 cup grated cheese
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup ground beef
1 beaten egg, for brushing
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix the wheat flour, grated cheese, salt and cold butter.
- Using your fingertips, knead the butter into the flour until it has a coarse, sandy texture.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands, until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper and tomato until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until cooked through.
Let cool. - Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 8 equal parts.
Open each portion into a circle with the rolling pin. - Place a generous portion of the filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough in half, forming a semicircle, and press the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal.
- Brush each empanada with beaten egg and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
