Beef Barbacoa Empanadas for a Flavorful Snack

Introduction

Beef Barbacoa Empanadas are a delicious and flavorful snack that combines tender shredded beef with rich and aromatic spices, all wrapped in a savory pastry shell. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to treat yourself to a savory treat, these empanadas are sure to impress your taste buds. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of Beef Barbacoa Empanadas.

Ingredients

For the Barbacoa:

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Empanadas:

• Pre-made empanada dough or pastry shells
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat and brown the meat on all sides.
3. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker and add beef broth, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, chipotle pepper, cumin, and oregano. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easy to shred.
4. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix well with the cooking juices.
5. Roll out the empanada dough or pastry shells on a floured surface. Place a spoonful of the beef barbacoa mixture in the center of each dough circle.
6. Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg and fold over to enclose the filling. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanadas.
7. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
9. Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these Beef Barbacoa Empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa.

FAQs about Beef Barbacoa Empanadas

What are Beef Barbacoa Empanadas?

Beef Barbacoa Empanadas are savory pastries filled with slow-cooked, tender shredded beef seasoned with rich and flavorful spices. The beef is traditionally cooked in adobo sauce, giving the filling a deliciously tangy and spicy taste.

How are Beef Barbacoa Empanadas made?

To make Beef Barbacoa Empanadas, the beef barbacoa filling is encased in a pocket of dough, usually made with flour, water, and shortening or butter. The empanadas are then sealed, crimped, and baked or fried until golden and crispy on the outside.

What makes Beef Barbacoa Empanadas a flavorful snack?

Beef Barbacoa Empanadas are a flavorful snack due to the combination of the juicy and tender beef barbacoa filling along with the flaky crust of the empanada. The slow-cooked beef is infused with a blend of spices that give it a rich and robust flavor, making every bite a burst of savory goodness.

Are Beef Barbacoa Empanadas suitable for all occasions?

Yes, Beef Barbacoa Empanadas are versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions, including parties, picnics, potlucks,