Ground Turkey Empanada
These Ground Turkey Empanadas are a savory delight, inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Latin America. Filled with a spiced ground turkey mixture, this dish is perfect for a comforting lunch or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Extra virgin for best flavor
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground turkey preferably organic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin freshly ground if possible
- 1 teaspoon paprika sweet or smoked, based on preference
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- ½ cup green olives chopped
- ¼ cup raisins optional, for added sweetness
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- 1 pinch ground black pepper to taste
Dough Ingredients
- 1 pound all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
- ½ cup cold water or as needed
- 1 large egg beaten, for egg wash
Instructions
Step 1:
- Prepare the DoughIn a large bowl, mix together 450 grams (3 1/2 cups) of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Add 225 grams (1 cup) of chilled, diced unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add 120 ml (1/2 cup) of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2:
- Cook the FillingHeat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add 450 grams (1 lb) of ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, paprika, and dried oregano. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped green olives and 1/4 cup of raisins (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3:
- Assemble the EmpanadasPreheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until about 3mm thick. Cut out circles using a 15cm (6-inch) cutter.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled turkey mixture onto one half of each circle. Brush the edges with water, fold over, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For a spicier filling, consider adding finely diced jalapeño peppers to the mixture.
- Using chilled butter and dough helps in creating flaky textures.
Nutrition
Calories: 524kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 20gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 92mgSodium: 464mgPotassium: 313mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 888IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 4mg
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