Colombian Empanadas

Traditional Colombian fried empanadas with yellow corn masa dough filled with seasoned beef and potatoes. Deep-fried until golden and crispy with distinctive corn flavor and crunch, served with ají sauce for Colombia's favorite street food snack.

1h 50mTime
MediumDifficulty
6 pplServings
ColombianCuisine
Colombian Empanadas

Ingredients

0 of 13 ingredients checked

Proteins

1
  • 500 g Ground Beef

Produce

4
  • 2 medium Russet Potatoes
  • 1 large Yellow Onion
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 1 large Tomato

Grains & Starches

1
  • 400 g Pre Cooked Yellow Corn Flour

Sauces & Oils

1
  • 1000 ml Vegetable Oil For Frying

Spices & Seasoning

5
  • 1.5 tsp Salt For Dough
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground Achiote Or Paprika
  • 2 tsp Salt For Filling
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper

Pantry

1
  • 600 ml Warm Water

13 items

Tags

South AmericanCornStreet FoodFriedEmpanadaBeefMainCrispyColombian

Instructions

deep-fryingsautéingmasa-making
0% Complete

Combine yellow corn flour and salt in large bowl, gradually add warm water while mixing until smooth dough forms

Cover dough with damp cloth and let rest for 15 minutes

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large pan over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until softened

Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned

Add potatoes, tomato, cumin, achiote, salt, and pepper, stir well

Add 120ml water, cover, and until potatoes are tender and liquid absorbed, about 12-15 minutes

Remove filling from heat and let cool completely

Divide dough into 12-14 equal portions and roll each into ball

Cut plastic bag into two sheets for pressing dough (prevents sticking)

Place dough ball between plastic sheets and press flat with heavy pot or tortilla press to 12cm circle

Place 2 tablespoons filling on one half of circle, leaving small border

Fold dough over filling to create half-moon and seal edges firmly by pressing with fingers

Heat vegetable oil in deep pot or fryer to 180°C (350°F)

Fry empanadas in batches, 3-4 at a time, for 4-5 minutes per side until deep golden brown

Drain on paper towels and serve hot