Low-Carb Beef Empanadas (Almond Flour Crust)
A keto-friendly twist on the classic Latin American hand pie
Key Info:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes (fried) or 15-20 minutes (baked)
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 empanadas
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dietary: Low-carb, Keto, Gluten-free
- Net Carbs: 2.5g per empanada
Equipment Needed:
- Food processor (or large mixing bowl)
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- 4-inch round cutter (or wine glass)
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet (if baking)
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1½ cups almond flour (150g)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, helps binding)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
- ½ medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Pulse almond flour, eggs, xanthan gum, and salt in a food processor until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 15 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
- Brown beef in a skillet over medium heat (about 5 minutes).
- Add onions and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in spices and cook for 2 minutes more. Let cool slightly.
3. Assemble:
- Roll dough between parchment sheets to ⅛-inch thickness.
- Cut 4-inch circles.
- Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold and crimp edges with a fork.
4. Cook (Choose One Method):
Frying:
- Heat oil to 350°F.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Baking:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Crucial Tips:
- Keep dough cold for easier handling.
- Don’t overfill – leads to bursting.
- Seal edges completely to prevent leaking.
- If frying, maintain oil temperature.
Storage:
- Refrigerate up to 3 days.
- Freeze uncooked for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Variations:
- Chicken filling with Mexican spices.
- Cheese and spinach for a vegetarian option.
- Add olives or diced peppers to the beef filling.
- Use coconut flour (reduce to ½ cup + add extra egg).
Remember: The key to perfect empanadas is sealing them well and not overfilling. These are fantastic for meal prep and freeze beautifully. Happy cooking! 🥟
