Recipe
Guamanian Beef Empanadas
Savory Island Delights: Guamanian Beef Empanadas
4.5 out of 5
Indulge in the flavors of Guamanian cuisine with these mouthwatering Beef Empanadas. A popular street food in Guam, these savory pastries are filled with seasoned beef and encased in a flaky crust, making them a perfect snack or appetizer.
Metadata
Preparation time
30 minutes
Cooking time
25 minutes
Total time
55 minutes
Yields
4 servings
Preparation difficulty
Medium
Suitable for
Omnivore, Low-carb (if using a low-carb pastry alternative), Dairy-free (if using dairy-free butter substitute), Nut-free, Soy-free
Allergens
Wheat (gluten), Egg
Not suitable for
Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free (unless using a gluten-free pastry alternative)
Ingredients
While the original Pazarske mantije from Balkan cuisine is a pastry filled with ground beef and onions, Guamanian Beef Empanadas have a distinct flavor profile due to the addition of traditional Guamanian spices and the use of a flaky pastry crust. The Guamanian version also incorporates local cooking techniques and cultural influences, making it a unique adaptation of the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pazarske mantije, so you can check it out.
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For the pastry: For the pastry:
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2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
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For the filling: For the filling:
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1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
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1/4 teaspoon oregano 1/4 teaspoon oregano
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Salt to taste Salt to taste
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For brushing: For brushing:
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1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
Nutrition
- Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
- Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 12g
- Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Salt: 0.8g
Preparation
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1.In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the pastry. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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2.Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
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3.In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
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4.Stir in the paprika, cumin, black pepper, chili powder, oregano, and salt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
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5.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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6.On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.
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7.Place a spoonful of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
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8.Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
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9.Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
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10.Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Treat your ingredients with care...
- Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- Paprika — Opt for smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor to the filling.
- Pastry — If you prefer a flakier crust, you can use puff pastry instead of the homemade dough.
Tips & Tricks
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Make a double batch of the empanadas and freeze the extras for a quick and convenient snack or meal.
- Serve the empanadas with a side of Guamanian hot sauce or a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Serving advice
Serve the Guamanian Beef Empanadas warm as an appetizer or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Presentation advice
Arrange the empanadas on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, to add a pop of color. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce for an inviting presentation.
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