Dairy-Free Empanada de Carne

Delight in the rich, savory flavors of Dairy-Free Empanada de Carne, a twist on a beloved classic that's perfect for anyone avoiding dairy without sacrificing taste. These golden, flaky pockets are made with an olive oil-based dough that’s easy to prepare and wonderfully tender. Each empanada is filled with a mouthwatering combination of seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, garlic, tangy green olives, and a medley of smoky spices like paprika and cumin. Whether baked until perfectly crisp or fried to golden perfection, these empanadas are a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for parties, appetizers, or a comforting weeknight meal. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is for a delicious, dairy-free take on this Latin-inspired favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:35 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup olive oil
• 0.75 cup cold water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup green olives, sliced
• 1 large egg (optional for sealing)
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Step 2

Gradually add 0.5 cup olive oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3

Slowly add 0.75 cup cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.

Step 4

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 5

While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 6

Add the diced medium yellow onion, diced green bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves to the beef. Stir and cook until the vegetables are softened.

Step 7

Stir in 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 8

Add 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 9

Remove from heat and stir in 0.5 cup sliced green olives. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Step 10

Preheat the oven to 400°F (if baking, not frying) or heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Step 11

Divide the dough into 12 portions. Roll each piece into a circle about 5 inches in diameter.

Step 12

Place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center of the dough circle.

Step 13

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and seal using a fork. Optionally, brush the edge with a beaten egg for sealing.

Step 14

If baking, place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 15

If frying, carefully place a few empanadas in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Step 16

Serve warm. Enjoy your Dairy-Free Empanada de Carne!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2181.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7991.7

Total Fat 691.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 121.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 10.6g
Cholesterol 507.1mg	0%
Sodium 6344.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 367.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.4g	0%
Total Sugars 15.9g
Protein 133.0g	0%

Vitamin D 41IU	0%
Calcium 324.0mg	0%
Iron 35.0mg	0%
Potassium 2625.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 75.7%

Protein: 6.5%

Carbs: 17.9%