Easy Panamanian Beef Empanadas Recipe

Today we’re diving into something delicious, comforting, and oh-so-Panamanian: empanadas!

Let’s get into some Panamanian empanadas recipes!

What are empanadas?

Empanadas are a type of pastry that originated in Spain but have become popular all over the world, especially in Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Philippines. These savory pastries or sweet treats are made by folding dough over a filling, which can vary significantly depending on the region and personal preferences. The dough is then either baked or fried in a deep skillet on moderately high heat until golden brown.

What are beef empanadas made of?

Easy beef empanadas are made of a beef mixture, that is typically seasoned with onions, garlic, and achiote seeds, which give the empanadas their vibrant red color and distinct flavor.

What ingredients are needed for beef empanadas?

It seems like a lot of ingredients for this easy recipe but most of this is the seasoning for the beef filling. I have been working for YEARS to perfect the taste of my filling. Different people use a variety of ingredients. The best way to perfect your Panamanian beef empanadas is by trial and error. I use ground beef, vegetable oil, small onion, red bell pepper, green peppers, cumin, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, oregano, Adobo seasoning, Maggi sauce, Worcestershire sauce, a tablespoon tomato paste, bay leaf, and premade empanada dough (I am still working to perfect my homemade dough.)

Are Jamaican beef patties empanadas?

Whenever people try to visualize the kinds of empanadas, I am talking about they ask me how similar they are to Jamaican beef patties. I think they are really similar. However, one of the biggest differences is the pastry dough. All of the Jamaican beef patties I’ve ever had are a bit more curry-flavored. These are on my shortlist for favorite meat pies I’ve ever had though. And I’ve had empanadas in a lot of countries.

Are beef empanadas healthy?

I really think anything can have a healthy version. The beef empanadas, I used to eat as a child have actually evolved and come a long way over the years. People have found ways to make empanada recipes with lower fat. So instead of frying them, some people might bake them on a lined baking sheet. I’ve seen some people use a puff pastry for the empanada dough. Instead of using meat, you could do cheese empanadas, or even use a meat substitute or veggies. The possibilities are endless!

What goes with empanadas?

While empanadas are a delicious meal on their own, there are many ways to take them to the next level and add even more flavor.

1. Dipping Sauces: Serve your empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors. Classic options include salsa, chimichurri, or even a tangy sour cream mixture. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.
2. Side Salads: Empanadas can be a filling meal on their own, but if you’re looking for a complete meal, serve them with a side salad. A fresh and crunchy salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory empanadas.
3. Salsa Verde: Add a twist to your empanadas by topping them with salsa verde. This tangy and slightly spicy green sauce will elevate the flavors and add a vibrant touch to your dish.
4. Guacamole: Who doesn’t love a dollop of creamy guacamole? Serve your empanadas with a side of guacamole for a rich and indulgent experience.

How long are empanadas good for?

It’s no surprise these never stay in our fridge for very long. However, if I preassemble them and then put them in the refrigerator, they are good for about a week. If I freeze them then they last longer (about 3 months.) I wrap them individually in plastic wrap to keep them from sticking together.

How do you make beef empanadas in the air fryer?

Even though most people cook them in a large skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. I have also put an egg wash over the top of the empanadas and put them in the air fryer for 7-8 minutes at 375 degrees. Baking them is also an easy and healthy option.

What is the secret to a good empanada?

The secret to a good empanada is not overstuffing them; you want there to be enough room for the filling inside but not too much that it spills out when fried. Once the empanadas are golden brown on both sides, remove them from the oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial to ensure that your empanadas are not greasy. Another tip that some people live by is to let the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before they roll the dough on a generously floured work surface.

Filling Ideas for Sweet Panamanian Empanadas Recipes

Sweet empanadas are a delightful treat that can satisfy your sweet tooth and provide a unique twist on the traditional savory empanadas. These sweet versions are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. While the savory empanadas typically include meat and vegetables, sweet empanadas allow for a whole new world of flavors and combinations. Here are some filling ideas that will take your sweet empanadas to the next level:

1. Apple Cinnamon: Sauté diced apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until they are tender and caramelized. The combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon will remind you of a comforting apple pie.
2. Nutella and Banana: Spread generous teaspoons of the filling on the dough and top it with sliced bananas. The creamy Nutella paired with the natural sweetness of the bananas creates a decadent and indulgent filling.
3. Strawberry Cream Cheese: Combine fresh strawberries with cream cheese and a touch of powdered sugar. The tangy cream cheese pairs perfectly with the juicy strawberries for a delightful burst of flavor.
4. Dulce de Leche: Spread a spoonful of dulce de leche on the dough and sprinkle it with a pinch of sea salt. The rich and caramel-like flavor of the dulce de leche is perfectly balanced with the salt, creating a heavenly combination.

Why You should try these Panamanian empanadas recipes.

You may be thinking, “Empanadas are everywhere, what’s so special about the ones from Panama?” Well, Panamanian empanadas come with their own flair and tradition. Empanadas are a beloved dish in Panamanian cuisine. So, whether you’re enjoying an empanada made with corn dough, filled with spiced meat. Or a yuca empanada bursting with fresh seafood. You’re getting a true taste of Panama’s culinary diversity and cultural richness.

Kisha

Looking for more empanadas recipes:

• Empanadas mendocinas {Argentinian empanadas}
• EMPANADILLAS (FRIED PUERTO RICAN TURNOVERS)
• Authentic Jamaican Patty Recipe

Posted By: Kisha Gulley · In: Featured, Recipes