Texan-style Meat-filled Empanadas

Ingredients

In this Texan adaptation of Pirukas, we incorporate Texan flavors and ingredients to give the dish a distinct Texan twist. The original Pirukas typically uses a different combination of spices and ingredients, such as pork, mushrooms, and traditional Lithuanian spices. In this Texan version, we use ground beef, onions, garlic, and Texan spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika to infuse the empanadas with the bold flavors of Texan cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Pirukas, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For brushing: For brushing:
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the dough. 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.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 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.
4. 4.
   Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. 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.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the cooled meat 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.
8. 8.
   Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
10. 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 ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
• Texan spices — Adjust the amount of chili powder, cumin, and paprika according to your preference for spiciness and smokiness. Feel free to add more or less to suit your taste.
• Dough — If you prefer a flakier crust, you can use a combination of butter and shortening in the dough. Make sure the butter or butter alternative is cold to achieve the desired texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a Tex-Mex twist, add a tablespoon of chopped jalapenos to the filling mixture.
• Serve the empanadas with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• Make a double batch of the empanadas and freeze the extras for a quick and convenient meal option.
• Experiment with different fillings such as shredded chicken, cheese, or beans to create a variety of empanadas.

Serving advice

Serve the Texan-style meat-filled empanadas warm as an appetizer or main course. They pair well with a fresh green salad or Tex-Mex rice and beans.

Presentation advice

Arrange the empanadas on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole in small dipping bowls for an appetizing presentation.