Gluten-Free Empanadas Recipe: Deliciousness Without the Gluten
Craving a taste of Latin America but need to stick to a gluten-free diet? Look no further! These gluten-free empanadas are the answer. They’re packed with flavor, perfectly portable, and surprisingly easy to make.
Empanadas are savory pastries that can be filled with just about anything. This recipe provides a versatile base for the dough and a delicious, classic beef filling, but feel free to experiment with chicken, vegetables, or even sweet fillings once you’ve mastered the basics.
The Key: Gluten-Free Dough
The secret to successful gluten-free empanadas lies in the dough. Many gluten-free doughs can be crumbly or difficult to work with. This recipe utilizes a blend of gluten-free flours, usually a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch, along with xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients. Don’t skip the xanthan gum – it’s essential for creating a dough that’s pliable and holds its shape during baking or frying.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough: 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, 1 tsp xanthan gum, ½ tsp salt, 6 tbsp cold butter (cut into cubes), ½ cup ice water
- For the Filling: 1 lb ground beef, 1 onion (chopped), 1 red bell pepper (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp chili powder, salt and pepper to taste, ¼ cup beef broth
Instructions:
- Make the Dough: Combine dry ingredients. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough comes together. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Brown ground beef. Drain excess fat. Add onion and bell pepper, cook until softened. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in beef broth. Simmer until liquid is absorbed. Cool completely.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Roll out dough thinly. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or bowl. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Moisten edges with water, fold in half, and crimp edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake or Fry: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Alternatively, fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use lard or shortening in the dough.
- Add olives, raisins, or hard-boiled eggs to the filling for a traditional touch.
- Brush with egg wash before baking for a glossy finish.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade gluten-free empanadas! They’re perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, xanthan gum, salt, cold butter, ice water, ground beef, onion, red bell pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, beef broth
Tags:
Gluten-Free, Empanadas, Recipe, Gluten-Free Recipe, Latin American Food, Savory Pastry, Beef Empanadas, Gluten-Free Dough, Rice Flour, Tapioca Starch, Potato Starch, Xanthan Gum, Baking, Frying, Ground Beef, Empanada Filling, Homemade, Snack, Appetizer, Party Food, Cooking, Food, Latin Cuisine