Description
Authentic Colombian Empanadas are a delightful culinary experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Colombia right to your table. These delectable pastries feature a flaky cornmeal dough filled with a savory mixture of tender beef and creamy potatoes, making them perfect for any occasion—whether as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the rich filling, creating a mouthwatering treat that will impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, these empanadas allow you to experiment with various fillings and spice levels to suit your taste. Enjoy them fresh out of the fryer or paired with a refreshing salad or spicy sauce for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb beef (chuck)
- 3 Russet potatoes
- 2 cups precooked cornmeal
- 1/2 cup scallions (finely chopped)
- 1/3 cup cilantro (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup red onion (diced)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Better than bouillon (Chicken bouillon)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon neutral vegetable oil (I used avocado oil)
Instructions
- Boil the Russet potatoes until fork-tender. Once cooled, peel and mash in a bowl.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté red onion, red bell pepper, scallions, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until soft.
- Add diced beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Mix in mashed potatoes, cilantro, Roma tomatoes, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce.
- In a separate bowl, combine cornmeal with water, salt, bouillon, cornstarch, and vegetable oil; knead until smooth and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll out small balls of dough into circles; place filling in the center and fold over to seal tightly.
- Fry empanadas in heated oil until golden brown on both sides (about 3-5 minutes). Drain on paper towels before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer/Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Colombian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada (approx. 120g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg