Beyond Mince Empanadas
Ingredients
Beef empanada filling:
- 1 pack Beyond Mince
- 4 roasted sweet plantain, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic peeled, chopped
- 2 tbsp red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp oregano, fresh chopped
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- ½ cup cilantro leaves, fresh chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper, ground
- 4 tbsp olive oil
Homemade empanada dough:
(or use about 12-15 store-bought empanada discs)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (plant-based options available)
- 1 egg or egg replacer
- ¼ cup water, adjust as needed
Instructions
Servings: 12 empanadas | Prep Time: 15 min (Plus 2 hours dough resting time) | Cook Time: 45-60 min
Golden, crispy and packed with flavour, these Beyond Mince Empanadas are a delicious plant-based twist on a classic savoury pastry. Filled with Beyond Mince, sweet roasted plantains, sautéed peppers, onion and aromatic spices, they’re perfect for sharing, snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Wrapped in homemade pastry and baked until beautifully golden, these empanadas bring together savoury, sweet and herby flavours in every bite. For a quicker alternative, use ready-made empanada discs and enjoy this flavour-packed recipe with less preparation.
1. Prepare the Beyond Mince Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the Beyond Mince with salt and cook for 3–5 minutes, until browned. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the diced onion and red and green peppers. Cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden. Add the cumin, oregano, sliced roasted plantains and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Return the cooked Beyond Mince to the pan and mix everything together. Stir in the fresh coriander, then set the filling aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Empanada Dough
Heat the water and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and gradually mix in the melted butter mixture and egg or egg replacer until a dough forms. Knead for approximately 2 minutes, until smooth.
Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 2 hours.
4. Shape the Empanadas
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Divide the chilled dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a circle approximately 13 cm wide.
Place around 3 tablespoons of filling in the centre of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork or fold them over to create a decorative finish.
If using ready-made empanada discs, follow the package instructions for filling and sealing.
5. Bake Until Golden
Arrange the empanadas on a lined baking tray and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, fry in hot oil for approximately 3–4 minutes, until golden and cooked through, following appropriate deep-frying safety practices.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Beyond Mince Empanadas
- Save time: Ready-made empanada discs make preparation much quicker.
- Cool the filling: Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to make the pastry easier to handle.
- Seal the edges well: Press firmly with a fork to help prevent the filling from escaping.
- Make them plant-based: Choose plant-based butter and an egg replacer for the homemade pastry, and check that your ready-made pastry is suitable.
- Serve with a dip: Pair with salsa, guacamole or your favourite dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Beyond Mince empanadas?
Beyond Mince empanadas are savoury pastries filled with plant-based mince, vegetables, herbs and spices. This version combines sweet roasted plantains with cumin, peppers and fresh coriander for a delicious balance of flavours.
Can I use ready-made empanada discs?
Yes. Ready-made empanada discs are a convenient alternative to homemade dough. Use approximately 12–15 discs, depending on their size.
Can I bake empanadas instead of frying them?
Yes. Baking is a convenient option. Bake at 190°C for approximately 30–35 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until needed. You can also assemble the empanadas ahead of baking; keep them refrigerated and bake when ready, ensuring the filling is handled and stored safely.
Are these Beyond Mince empanadas vegan?
They can be made vegan by using plant-based butter, an egg replacer and pastry ingredients that contain no animal products. Check the labels of all ingredients, including ready-made pastry discs.