Savory Salteñas Empanadas

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Savory Salteñas Empanadas.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious empanadas, grab a small saucepan and combine water with salt over medium heat.

2. Step 2

   Stir the mixture until the salt completely dissolves, then take it off the heat and let it cool for about 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Next, in a food processor, add your sifted flour and melted margarine.

4. Step 4

   Pulse the ingredients together until they form a crumbly texture.

5. Step 5

   Slowly pour in the cooled salt water while pulsing until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

6. Step 6

   If the dough feels too dry, you can add more water, one teaspoon at a time.

7. Step 7

   Once your dough is ready, shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill.

8. Step 8

   While the dough is cooling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

9. Step 9

   Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and give it a light greasing with vegetable oil—this will help your empanadas bake to a perfect golden brown.

10. Step 10

    Now, let’s prepare the filling! Bring a saucepan of water to a boil and add your cubed potatoes.

11. Step 11

    Cook them until they’re tender, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.

12. Step 12

    Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside.

13. Step 13

    In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and toss in the onions and green onions.

14. Step 14

    Sauté them until they’re soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes.

15. Step 15

    Next, add the red peppers and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

16. Step 16

    Now it’s time to add the ground beef, stirring until it’s fully browned, about 5 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Season this savory mixture with salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, and paprika to taste, then remove it from the heat.

18. Step 18

    Combine the drained potatoes with the beef mixture, and don’t forget to add in some chopped eggs for extra flavor.

19. Step 19

    Let the filling cool for a few minutes while you prepare the dough.

20. Step 20

    Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and gently knead it on a floured surface.

21. Step 21

    Divide the dough in half and roll each piece out to about 1/8-inch thickness.

22. Step 22

    Using a pastry cutter or a sharp knife, cut out 3-inch circles from the rolled dough.

23. Step 23

    Lightly wet the edges of each circle with a bit of water.

24. Step 24

    Place a generous tablespoon of your delicious filling in the center of each circle, fold the dough over, and press the edges together to seal.

25. Step 25

    For a decorative touch, use a fork to crimp the edges.

26. Step 26

    Carefully transfer the empanadas to your prepared baking sheet.

27. Step 27

    Now, it’s time to bake! Place the empanadas in the preheated oven and let them bake until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes.

28. Step 28

    Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

29. Step 29

    Enjoy your homemade empanadas, bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends!.