Ther’s something irresistibly comforting about biting into a golden, flaky turnover filled with savory goodness. Among the many beloved variations around the globe, beef turnovers - often known as empanadas – stand out as a timeless delight that marries rich, spiced meat with tender pastry in every mouthful.
Whether served as a snack,appetizer,or part of a hearty meal,these hand-held pockets of flavor have a way of bringing people together and evoking memories of home-cooked warmth. In this guide, we’ll explore the art of crafting perfect savory beef turnovers, from choosing the right cuts and seasonings to mastering the dough and folding techniques, ensuring your next batch is as delicious and authentic as those found in kitchens from Argentina to Spain. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey that turns simple ingredients into a culinary treasure you’ll want to share again and again.
Savory beef turnovers offer a splendid fusion of rich, seasoned meat enveloped in crisp, flaky dough, delivering an irresistible bite every time. Rooted in Latin American cuisine yet beloved globally, these empanadas bring comfort and flavor to the table, whether for a casual snack or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering.
Drawing on years of culinary styling and recipe advancement, I’ll guide you through choosing the perfect beef filling, crafting that delicate flaky dough, unlocking seasoning secrets, and elevating your presentation with creative serving suggestions to thrill every palate.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
Approximately 12 medium-sized turnovers, serving 4-6 people.
Difficulty Level
Medium - Perfect for cooks ready to explore layering flavors and textures while mastering a classic dough technique.
Ingredients
- For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for optimal juiciness)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional; adjust for heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced (adds brightness)
- For the Flaky Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup ice-cold water, approximately
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and red bell pepper, sautéing until translucent-about 5 minutes.Stir in minced garlic for 1 minute,releasing its aroma.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Mix in tomato paste, then pour beef broth gradually, letting it reduce on low heat until it’s moist but not watery, about 8 minutes. Stir in sliced green olives for a pop of savoriness. Remove from heat and let cool fully.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut cold cubed butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
- Gradually add ice-cold water, starting with 1/2 cup, stirring gently until dough begins to form. Add more water sparingly, just enough to bring dough together-avoid overworking for maximum flakiness.
- Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Assemble Turnovers: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll dough out on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a 5-6 inch round cutter, cut out circles.
- Place 2 tbsp of beef filling on one half of each circle, leaving a border.Moisten edges with water, fold over to form a half-moon, and press edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- Beat the egg and brush each turnover lightly for a golden, glossy finish.
- Place turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and filling to firm up slightly.
Tips for Success
- Choosing beef: Use 80% lean ground beef to ensure the filling stays juicy without excess grease draining out and sogging the dough.
- Dough hydration: Ice-cold water and minimal handling are keys to flaky layers. If dough feels sticky, chill it before rolling again.
- Filling balance: Don’t overfill turnovers; crowded filling can burst the dough. Keep portions uniform for even baking.
- make ahead: Both dough and filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance-store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Freezing option: Freeze unfried turnovers on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen-add 5 extra minutes to baking time.
Innovative Serving Suggestions and Pairings to Impress
For a full sensory experience, present the savory beef turnovers alongside a vibrant chimichurri sauce-its fresh herbs and tangy bite wonderfully contrast the rich meat. A cooling avocado crema, made from ripe avocado, lime juice, garlic, and a touch of sour cream, also pairs beautifully, adding creamy freshness.
For garnish, sprinkle finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, and scatter thin slices of pickled jalapeño or diced red onion for a pop of color and zing. Serve turnovers with a side salad of mixed greens dressed lightly in citrus vinaigrette or a crisp, tangy slaw for crunch and brightness.
Looking to elevate further? Pair these turnovers with a robust black bean and corn salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a harmonious feast. For beverage pairing, iced hibiscus tea or a sparkling ginger drink complement the savory spices flawlessly.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 turnovers) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 32 g |
| Fat | 21 g |
Internal Link: For a complementary recipe, check out our spicy Black Bean Salad to round out your meal.
External Link: Learn more about the history and cultural meaning of empanadas here at Britannica.
Q&A
Q&A: Savory beef Turnovers – A Delicious Empanada Guide
Q1: What exactly are savory beef turnovers?
A1: Savory beef turnovers are a type of empanada-a handheld pastry filled with a flavorful beef mixture. They’re golden, flaky pockets bursting with tender, seasoned ground beef and often complemented by vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a snack or a complete meal!
Q2: How do savory beef turnovers differ from other types of empanadas?
A2: While empanadas come with a variety of fillings ranging from cheese to chicken or vegetables, savory beef turnovers focus on a rich, beef-based filling. The emphasis is on a harmonious balance of hearty meat, spices, and sometimes additions like onions, peppers, or olives, creating a savory and satisfying bite.
Q3: What cuts of beef work best for making the filling?
A3: Ground beef is typically the star of the filling due to its texture and ease of blending with spices. For those wanting a bit more texture, finely diced beef stew meat or shredded slow-cooked beef can also make an astonishing filling, bringing a richer flavor and a tender bite.
Q4: What spices and ingredients can elevate the flavor of savory beef turnovers?
A4: Classic spices include cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, and chili powder for warmth and depth. Adding diced onions,bell peppers,and a touch of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley brightens the flavor. Some cooks love a hint of acidity-a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice-to balance the richness.
Q5: Can these turnovers be made ahead of time?
A5: Absolutely! you can prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge.The turnovers themselves can be assembled and frozen raw, then baked straight from the freezer whenever you’re ready. This makes for a convenient and delicious ready-to-eat snack any day of the week.
Q6: What type of dough is best for savory beef turnovers?
A6: Conventional empanada dough is typically a simple mixture of flour, cold butter or oil, salt, and water, resulting in a tender, flaky crust. Some prefer using puff pastry for extra flakiness, while others opt for whole wheat dough to boost the nutrition. The key is balancing flakiness with sturdiness so it holds all that delicious filling.
Q7: How can one achieve the perfect crispy, golden crust?
A7: Brushing the turnovers with an egg wash-beaten egg mixed with a bit of water or milk-before baking helps develop that gorgeous golden shine. baking at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the filling juicy inside.
Q8: Are there vegetarian versions of these turnovers?
A8: Yes! While beef turnovers are a classic, you can swap the meat for savory fillings like spiced lentils, mushrooms, or a medley of roasted vegetables seasoned with similar spices to keep the satisfying, robust flavor profile.
Q9: how should savory beef turnovers be served?
A9: These turnovers are versatile-serve them hot right out of the oven as a hearty appetizer, lunch, or dinner. Pair with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a cooling yogurt dip for a contrast of flavors. They also travel well, making them perfect picnic or party fare.
Q10: Any tips for making the assembly process easier and less messy?
A10: Use a small ice cream scoop or spoon to portion the filling evenly.Don’t overfill-to avoid leakage during baking-and moisten the dough edges with water before sealing. Crimping edges with a fork or folding them into a decorative rope seal ensures a tight closure and adds visual charm.
Enjoy creating your savory beef turnovers and savor every flaky, flavorful bite!
Concluding Remarks
whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, mastering the art of savory beef turnovers opens the door to a world of rich flavors and satisfying bites. These empanadas, with their flaky crusts and hearty fillings, offer more than just a meal-they’re a culinary journey through tradition and taste.
So next time you crave something warm, portable, and utterly delicious, remember this guide and let your kitchen become a haven for crafting the perfect beef turnover. Happy baking,and may every bite bring a little more joy to your table!
