Ingredients and Weight:
- 200g ground beef
- 100g shortcrust pastry (available in supermarkets)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (e.g., vegetable oil)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder (if using), oregano, salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Take small portions of the pastry and roll out into circles or oval shapes.
- Place a small amount of the beef mixture into the center of each pastry piece.
- Fold the pastry over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the empanadas until golden brown on both sides.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until the pastry is cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or condiment.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 350 calories per serving (assuming about 4 empanadas per person)
- Carbohydrates: Pastry provides carbs
- Protein: Ground beef is a good source of protein
- Fat: Contains both saturated and unsaturated fats from the oil used for frying and the beef.
Dish Characteristics:
- A traditional Latin American dish, mini empanadas are small, portable, and perfect for parties or as a snack.
- The beef filling can be customized with different flavors and spices to suit different tastes.
- The pastry is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a great contrast in texture.
User Comments:
- "These empanadas were a hit at my party! The beef filling was flavorful, and the pastry was crispy and delicious."
- "I love the mini size, they're perfect for snacking. The chili powder gave them a nice kick."
- "I made these for dinner and they were a big hit with my family. The baking instructions were clear and easy to follow."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure the pastry is well-sealed to prevent leakage during baking and frying.
- You can adjust the heat of the filling by adding more or less chili powder.
- For a healthier option, you can reduce the amount of oil used for frying or opt for baking them entirely.
