Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (320g) Pre-cooked yellow cornmeal (e.g., Harina P.A.N.)
  • 2 ½ cups (600ml) Warm water
  • 1 tsp (6g) Fine sea salt
  • 1 tbsp (12g) Granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Vegetable oil for the dough
  • 1 lb (450g) Beef chuck, slow-cooked and shredded
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 clove garlic for sauce
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions:

  1. Combine 2.5 cups warm water, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 tbsp oil in a large bowl. Stir until the solids are fully dissolved.
  2. Gradually add 2 cups cornmeal while mixing with your hand. Note: Using your hand helps you feel for any dry lumps that need breaking up.
  3. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes. Wait until it feels firm and holds its shape without being sticky.
  4. Sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and 2 cloves garlic in a pan. Add the shredded beef, 1 tsp cumin, and 2 tbsp tomato paste.
  5. Cook the beef mixture until no liquid remains in the bottom of the pan. Note: This prevents the empanadas from exploding.
  6. Blend avocado, cilantro, 1 garlic clove, 2 tbsp vinegar, and 3 tbsp olive oil. Process until the sauce is velvety and smooth.
  7. Divide dough into 11 balls (85g each). Flatten each ball on a plastic bag until it is 1/4 inch thick.
  8. Place 1.5 tbsp filling in the center. Fold the dough over and press the edges firmly with a bowl to seal.
  9. Heat 2 cups oil to 350°F (175°C) in a skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden and audible when tapped.
  10. Drain on a wire rack for 2 minutes. Serve immediately while the crust is at its peak crunch. > Chef's Tip: If the dough feels too dry and starts to crack while you're shaping the balls, just wet your hands with a little bit of warm water and knead it for another 30 seconds. It’s very forgiving! Fiesta Chicken Empanadas Latin Flavor at Home — Craving proper chicken empanadas These golden baked beauties are inspired by ... $img_2$