Step 1: Make the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add Butter: Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, beat the egg, water, and vinegar together. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead and Chill: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until smooth. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Ground Meat: Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season and Mix: Add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the tomato paste, olives, raisins, and hard-boiled egg (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Fill and Fold: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges with a fork. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Empanadas
- Arrange in Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Air Fry: Cook the empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the empanadas from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables, black beans, or cheese for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
- Cheese Addition: Add shredded cheese to the filling for extra gooeyness.
- Sweet Variation: Try a sweet filling with apples, cinnamon, and sugar for a dessert empanada.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to make. The air fryer ensures they are perfectly crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or meal, these empanadas are sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
Air Fryer Empanadas offer a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy this tasty dish. The air fryer ensures a perfect crisp every time, making these empanadas a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and seasonings to make this dish your own!