Street Food

Cuban Picadillo Empanadas

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Cuban Picadillo Empanadas
Golden-brown Cuban picadillo empanadas, served with a refreshing lime wedge.

Savor the essence of Cuban cuisine through this delightful and portable street food favorite. Embracing rich spices and succulent fillings, Cuban Picadillo Empanadas are a testament to the island’s culinary ingenuity. Perfectly crispy on the outside with a savory meaty filling inside, these empanadas make for an irresistible snack or meal that transports you straight to Havana’s bustling streets.

“Cuban picadillo is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and tradition.”

Highlights

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 12 empanadas
  • Calories: 220kcal per empanada

Ingredients

For the Empanada Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Picadillo Filling:

  • 1 pound ground beef or pork
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 20 minutes.

  2. Make the Picadillo Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground meat until browned. Add onion, garlic, and green pepper; sauté until softened. Stir in raisins, olives, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add lime juice. Let cool.

  3. Roll Out Dough: Divide dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface.

  4. Assemble Empanadas: Place a spoonful of picadillo filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold dough over to form a half-moon shape, sealing edges with a fork or by crimping with your fingers.

  5. Bake the Empanadas: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat an egg and brush over empanada tops for shine. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:

  • Serving: 1 empanada
  • Calories: 220kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g

Indulge in these Cuban Picadillo Empanadas, paired with a zesty lime wedge to enhance their flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them at a vibrant street market or as part of your next gathering, they promise to deliver the joy and warmth of Cuban culinary traditions. Perfect for sharing, these empanadas are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them!

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