Spicy Salvadoran Beef Empanadas (Empanadas de Carne Picantes Salvadoreñas)

Empanadas de Carne Picantes Salvadoreñas are a delicious and spicy traditional dish from El Salvador. These savory beef empanadas are perfect for a flavorful snack or a satisfying meal.

Spicy Salvadoran Beef Empanadas (Empanadas de Carne Picantes Salvadoreñas)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 12 empanada discs (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, tomatoes, garlic, and jalapeño pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each empanada disc. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  5. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Serve the empanadas hot and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
320 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Large skillet Spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper

Tools

Oven Fork

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Serve the empanadas with a side of curtido (Salvadoran cabbage slaw) and salsa roja for a complete and authentic Salvadoran meal.

Tips & tricks

Tips: For an extra kick of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef filling before sealing the empanadas.

Cost

$15