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Air Fryer Beef Empanadas: A Deliciously Crispy Treat [Video]

Empanadas have long been a cherished staple of Latin American cuisine, offering a delightful combination of flaky pastry and savoury fillings. Among the many varieties, beef empanadas are particularly popular due to their rich flavour and satisfying texture. With the advent of air fryers, making these delectable bites has never been easier. Not only does the air fryer provide a healthier alternative to traditional frying, but it also produces a wonderfully crispy exterior that complements the juicy filling perfectly. In this article, we explore how to create delicious air fryer beef empanadas, along with a video demonstration to guide you through the process.

The Joy of Air Frying

Air frying is a cooking method that circulates hot air around the food, mimicking the effects of deep frying but with significantly less oil. This technique allows you to achieve that coveted crispy texture without the excess calories and fat. It’s perfect for making empanadas, as you can enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer with all their deliciousness intact.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)

For the Beef Filling:

• 500g minced beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olives, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled cubed butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If necessary, add a little more water.
3. Knead gently until smooth, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large frying pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the minced beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the chopped red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional few minutes until the peppers are tender.
4. If using, add the chopped olives and parsley, mixing well. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 3mm thick. Use a round cutter (about 10cm in diameter) to cut circles from the dough.
3. Place a tablespoon of the beef filling in the centre of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
4. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a lovely golden finish.

Step 4: Air Fry the Empanadas

1. Arrange the empanadas in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.
2. Cook for around 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. They pair wonderfully with a side of salsa or guacamole, making them perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a tasty snack.

Watch the Video

To see this recipe in action, check out our video demonstration where we guide you through each step of the process. You’ll see how effortless it is to prepare, assemble, and cook these wonderful air fryer beef empanadas.

[Insert Video Here]

Conclusion

Air fryer beef empanadas are a versatile and delectable dish that can easily please a crowd. With their easy preparation method and healthier cooking option, you can indulge in these delightful treats without the guilt of traditional frying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, these empanadas are sure to amaze your taste buds. Give them a try and savour the delightful flavours packed within!

Happy cooking!

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