Bahama breeze beef empanadas: a scrumptious recipe that will transport you to paradise

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Caribbean with our comprehensive guide on how to make authentic Bahama Breeze beef empanadas. These delectable pockets of crispy dough enveloping savory beef fillings are a culinary delight that will transport you to the vibrant streets of the Bahamas.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/4 cup cold water

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut the vegetable shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Filling:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro.

Assembling the Empanadas:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out circles of dough, using a 4-inch (10 cm) cookie cutter or a large glass.
4. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork.

Baking and Serving:

1. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Perfection

• For extra crispy empanadas, brush them with an egg wash before baking.
• Add a touch of spice to the filling by using a hotter variety of chili powder.
• If you don’t have a cookie cutter, you can use a large glass or a bowl to cut out the dough circles.
• To prevent the empanadas from sticking to the baking sheet, sprinkle it with a little flour before placing them on it.
• Serve the empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces, such as chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole.

Variations on the Classic

• Experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, pork, or vegetables.
• Add cheese to the filling for a gooey and flavorful twist.
• Top the empanadas with chopped tomatoes, onions, or cilantro before baking.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What is the best way to seal the empanadas?
Use a fork to crimp the edges of the dough, ensuring that they are completely sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out.

2. Why are my empanadas soggy?
Make sure to bake the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking and becoming soggy.

3. How can I reheat the empanadas?
You can reheat the empanadas in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in a toaster oven until warmed through.

4. What is the best way to store the empanadas?
Store the empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the empanadas for up to 3 months.

5. Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the empanadas ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Simply assemble the empanadas and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the empanadas from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.