Here’s a classic recipe for Conchitas con Carne — a traditional Latin American-style beef-stuffed pastry, crispy on the outside and savory on the inside. 🥟🥩
🥟 Conchitas con Carne (Beef-Stuffed Pastries)
Makes: 12–16 pastries
Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 20–25 min
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2½ cups (320 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup (120 ml) cold water (adjust as needed)
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste or 2–3 tbsp tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Optional for Glaze
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the dough)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Beat in egg and gradually add cold water until dough comes together.
- Knead lightly, then cover and refrigerate 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in bell pepper (if using), tomato paste, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook 5 more minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in fresh parsley or cilantro. Cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Conchitas
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
- Cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter).
- Place 1–2 tbsp beef filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold dough over to create a half-moon or triangle shape.
- Press edges firmly to seal (use a fork for a decorative edge).
- Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Bake
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Conchitas
- Dough should be cold to make it easier to roll and shape.
- Don’t overfill, or they may burst during baking.
- These can also be fried for a crispier exterior (cook 3–5 minutes per side in hot oil).
Variations
- Cheese & Beef: Add ¼ cup shredded cheese to the filling.
- Spicy Beef: Add ½ tsp cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
- Vegetarian: Substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms and vegetables.
If you want, I can give you a step-by-step visual version with folding techniques for perfect conchitas every time.
Do you want me to do that?
