Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›La Habana Vieja›Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas Recipe

Inspired by La Habana Vieja
Time1h 30m
Serves8

Stuffed pastries filled with meat or vegetables.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Filling

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. 2

    Add Egg and Water

    Stir in the egg and gradually add water until the dough comes together. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

  3. 3

    Chill the Dough

    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Filling Preparation

  1. 4

    Cook the Filling

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.

  2. 5

    Add Ground Beef

    Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.

  3. 6

    Season the Filling

    Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.

Assembly and Cooking

  1. 7

    Roll Out Dough

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.

  2. 8

    Cut Dough Circles

    Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.

  3. 9

    Fill the Empanadas

    Place a spoonful of the filling on one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal.

  4. 10

    Brush with Egg Wash

    Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.

  5. 11

    Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

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