Carne Empanada
Carne Empanada features tender marinated beef with garlic and vinegar, offering a flavorful, savory filling perfect for appetizers or main courses in Latin-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the meat and cut it into strips.
- Beat the meat to tenderize it.
- Combine crushed garlic cloves and salt.
- Marinate the meat with the garlic mixture and vinegar.
- Chill the meat in the refrigerator for a while.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the marinade. You can substitute round steak with flank steak or even ground beef for a different texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling. This dish pairs well with Zucchini Or Yellow Squash Patties as a side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these carne empanadas warm, accompanied by a fresh salsa or guacamole for dipping. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings or parties. Consider pairing them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also complement well with Danish Apple Pudding for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the empanadas on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carne Empanada contains roughly 316 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1083mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat filling a day in advance. Just marinate it and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the empanadas. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of soda cracker crumbs?
If you don't have soda cracker crumbs, you can substitute them with breadcrumbs, crushed tortilla chips, or even crushed cornflakes. Each option will provide a different texture but will work well in the recipe.
Can I freeze the empanadas?
Absolutely! Once assembled, you can freeze the empanadas before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).