Panamanian Beef Empanadas

Experience the authentic flavors of Panamanian cuisine with these irresistible Panamanian Beef Empanadas! Encased in a buttery, flaky homemade pastry, these golden pockets are filled with a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, aromatic garlic, caramelized onions, and green bell peppers. A touch of smoked paprika and cumin adds a depth of warmth and spice, while a hint of oregano ties the filling together perfectly. Fried to a crispy, golden perfection, this recipe is both comforting and deeply satisfying, making it ideal for appetizers, snacks, or party platters. Serve them warm for a true taste of Panama that’s sure to impress. Perfect for anyone craving rich Latin American flavors, these empanadas are a must-try!

Nutriscore Rating: 48/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 cup cold water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for brushing)

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt for the dough. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2

Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Knead lightly, form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3

While the dough chills, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool to room temperature.

Step 6

Preheat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) for frying.

Step 7

Roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small bowl (4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.

Step 8

Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle. Brush the edges of the dough with a little water, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together with a fork to seal.

Step 9

Brush the empanadas with a little milk to help them brown evenly.

Step 10

Fry the empanadas in batches in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 11

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Panamanian Beef Empanadas!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2014.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	9472.1

Total Fat 902.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 195.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 614.9mg	0%
Sodium 6323.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 301.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.0g	0%
Total Sugars 13.2g
Protein 120.6g	0%

Vitamin D 20IU	0%
Calcium 360.3mg	0%
Iron 30.9mg	0%
Potassium 2478.8mg	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: 82.8%

Protein: 4.9%

Carbs: 12.3%