Keto Beef Empanadas

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups almond flour (or 1 1/2 cups coconut flour)
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional, for structure)
• 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (optional, for texture)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup cold water (if needed, adjust for consistency)

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup green olives (chopped, optional)
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For sealing the empanadas:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

For the dough:

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine almond flour (or coconut flour), ground flaxseed, xanthan gum (if using), salt, and garlic powder. Mix together.
2. Add in softened butter and cream cheese. Mix until the texture becomes crumbly.
3. Add the egg and stir until the dough begins to form. If it’s too dry, add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until you get a smooth dough consistency.
4. Roll the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the filling:

1. Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until softened.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the chopped olives (if using), cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. If you like cheese, mix in the shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese at this point.

Assembling the Empanadas:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough: Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
3. Fill the empanadas: Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal.
5. Egg wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each empanada for a golden finish.
6. Bake: Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Tips:

• You can use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a different flavor.
• Feel free to add more herbs or spices to the filling to suit your taste (like oregano or chili flakes).
• If the dough feels too crumbly when rolling out, add a bit more cold water to help it stick together.

Enjoy your Keto Beef Empanadas! They make a great snack or meal with a side salad.