How To Cook Goya Beef Empanadas Like A Pro: Tips And Tricks From The Pros
What To Know
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the Goya beef empanada dough into a thin circle.
- Place a generous spoonful of the savory filling in the center of the dough circle.
- For a savory complement, serve the empanadas with a side of black beans and rice.
Embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the art of creating authentic Goya beef empanadas. These savory pastries, originating from the vibrant streets of Latin America, have captivated taste buds worldwide. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll master the techniques to prepare these delectable treats, perfect for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients
To craft these flavorful empanadas, gather these essential ingredients:
- Goya beef empanada dough
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Bell pepper
- Garlic
- Goya sazon seasoning
- Cumin
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Egg wash
Creating the Savory Filling
1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until softened.
3. Season and Flavor: Add minced garlic, Goya sazon seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Beef: Add the browned beef to the vegetable mixture and stir well.
Assembling the Empanadas
1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the Goya beef empanada dough into a thin circle.
2. Fill the Dough: Place a generous spoonful of the savory filling in the center of the dough circle.
3. Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges firmly with a fork or your fingers.
4. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the empanadas with an egg wash made from one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water.
Baking Perfection
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the Empanadas: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and the crust is crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the freshly baked Goya beef empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or main course.
Tips for Success
- For a crispy crust, refrigerate the empanadas for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If you don’t have Goya beef empanada dough, you can use store-bought pie dough or puff pastry.
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as shredded chicken, cheese, or vegetables.
- Bake the empanadas in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
The Art of Freezing
- To freeze unbaked empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake frozen empanadas, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
The Perfect Pairing
- Pair your Goya beef empanadas with a refreshing glass of horchata, a traditional Latin American beverage made from rice, cinnamon, and milk.
- For a savory complement, serve the empanadas with a side of black beans and rice.
Embracing the Goya Beef Empanada Legacy
Indulge in the rich heritage of Goya beef empanadas, a culinary treasure that has delighted generations. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll create these delectable pastries that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Latin America.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between empanadas and empanadillas?
A: Empanadas are typically larger than empanadillas and have a thicker crust. They are often filled with meat or vegetables, while empanadillas are usually filled with cheese or fruit.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat in the filling?
A: Yes, you can use ground pork, chicken, or turkey instead of ground beef.
Q: What if I don’t have Goya sazon seasoning?
A: You can substitute a blend of oregano, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Q: How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
A: The empanadas are done baking when the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Q: Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.