Argentine cuisine is famous for many reasons, but if there’s one dish that stands out for its tradition and flavor, it’s the empanada. This iconic snack has won over palates around the world, but to truly understand its essence, one must appreciate the art behind its preparation. At El Porteño, we take pride in offering our guests an authentic Argentine beef empanada, delivering a culinary experience that is both genuine and unforgettable.

The Origin of Argentine Empanadas

Argentine empanadas are a traditional dish rooted in Spanish and Arab influences, which arrived in South America during the colonial era. Over time, this dish was embraced and adapted in every region of Argentina, creating different versions that reflect the country’s cultural and geographical diversity. From Salteñas with potatoes to Tucumanas with hard-boiled eggs, each province has its own recipe.

However, despite these variations, all Argentine empanadas share a common trait: a soft, thin dough encasing a flavorful filling, usually beef, cooked either in the oven or fried, and made with fresh ingredients.

The Artisanal Process of Making Empanadas

The art of making Argentine empanadas lies in the dedication and care at every step of the process. From the preparation of the dough to the filling, each component must be made with precision and love.

• The Dough:
  The foundation of every good empanada is its dough. In Argentina, the goal is for it to be thin and light, yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking. Traditionally, it’s made with flour, fat or lard, water, and salt. The key is to knead it until it reaches a soft and elastic texture.
• The Repulgue:
  The repulgue, or decorative edge of the empanada, is more than just an adornment. It’s a technique that requires practice, and its purpose is to properly seal the empanada so the filling doesn’t escape during cooking. Additionally, the style of the repulgue often varies depending on the region and the type of filling.
• The Filling:
  While there are many types of empanadas with fillings that include chicken, ham and cheese, or spinach, the beef empanada is the most traditional and beloved in Argentina. This filling is usually made with minced or finely chopped beef, onion, peppers, cumin, paprika, and hard-boiled egg. In some regions, olives or raisins are added for a sweet touch.
• The Cooking:
  In Argentina, empanadas are typically cooked in a clay oven, which gives them a unique flavor and texture. Nowadays, empanadas are baked in conventional ovens, but the goal remains the same: to achieve a golden, crispy dough while keeping the filling juicy and flavorful.

El Porteño’s Beef Empanada: Tradition with a Special Touch

We’ve perfected the art of the Argentine empanada, staying true to tradition and using the highest quality ingredients. Our Beef Empanada is a true culinary gem that you won’t want to miss. Made with juicy, well-seasoned beef, onions, peppers, and a hint of spices that enhance the classic flavors, each bite will transport you to a barbecue in Buenos Aires.

What makes our empanada unique is the perfect balance between the crispy dough and the tender, juicy, and flavorful filling. We take the authenticity of our recipes seriously, and that’s why our beef empanada follows traditional Argentine methods, with a special touch that only our team of chefs can offer.

Why the Empanada is the Soul of Argentine Cuisine

The empanada is a dish that represents hospitality and family unity. In Argentina, there’s no gathering without empanadas, and they are commonly found at both important celebrations and casual meals with friends. At El Porteño, we want every one of our diners to feel a part of this tradition by enjoying a dish that reflects Argentina’s rich cultural heritage.

Moreover, empanadas are versatile and easy to enjoy on any occasion. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, there’s always room for an empanada at your table.

Enjoy the Best Argentine Empanadas in CDMX

If you’re looking to taste an authentic Argentine beef empanada, look no further. At our restaurant, we offer a culinary experience that captures the tradition and quality of Argentine cuisine. Our restaurant brings the authentic flavors of Buenos Aires’ grills and bodegones to Mexico City, and our empanadas are a testament to that.

We invite you to visit us and enjoy our delicious beef empanadas, prepared with love and following the best traditional recipes. Come and experience a true gastronomic journey to the heart of Argentina without leaving CDMX!