Argentine Meat Empanadas

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 egg, beaten for egg wash

Preparation Time:

• 90 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute more.
4. Pour in the beef broth and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the filling to a bowl and let cool slightly.
6. To make the dough, whisk together the flour and salt in a large bowl.
7. Add the butter cubes and use your fingers to work them into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
8. Add the ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
9. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
11. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
12. Place a scoop of filling in the center of each circle.
13. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
14. Brush the empanadas with egg wash.
15. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

• Serving size: 1 empanada (1/8 of recipe)
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 20g

Dish Characteristics:

• Flaky and tender crust
• Savory and flavorful filling
• Argentinean-inspired flavors
• Can be served as an appetizer or main course

User Comments:

• "These empanadas were absolutely delicious! The crust was perfectly flaky and the filling was bursting with flavor."
• "I loved the combination of beef, peppers, and spices. It was a really unique and satisfying dish."
• "These empanadas were a hit with my guests! They were easy to make and the perfect way to experience Argentinean cuisine."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• To make the empanadas ahead of time, bake them for 20 minutes, then let cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes before serving.
• If you don't have ground beef, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or pork instead.
• You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as corn, peas, or carrots.