Embark on a culinary journey to Bolivia, where rich traditions and vibrant flavors come together in the form of Tucumanas – a delectable dish that captures the essence of Bolivian gastronomy. Rooted in the heart of the country, Tucumanas are a popular street food, beloved for their savory fillings and crispy golden exteriors. In this culinary adventure, we'll explore the art of crafting these mouthwatering delights, providing you with a step-by-step guide to recreate the authentic taste of Bolivia's Tucumanas in the comfort of your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in the unique and tantalizing flavors that define Bolivian cuisine, as we unlock the secrets behind this beloved local treat.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1 cup warm water

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

For the Dough:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.

2-Add the cold, diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3-Gradually add warm water, mixing until the dough comes together.

4-Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

For the Filling:

1-In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.

2-Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent.

3-Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

4-Add green peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and sliced olives. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assembly:

1-Preheat oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).

2-Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut circles (approximately 4-5 inches in diameter).

3-Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.

4-Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork.

5-Carefully place the filled empanadas into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides.

6-Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serve hot and enjoy the authentic taste of Bolivia with these Tucumanas, a delightful fusion of crispy goodness and flavorful filling that captures the essence of Bolivian street food.

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients per serving, considering a yield of about 12 tucumanas:

Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour:

• 1080 calories
• 228g carbohydrates
• 12g protein
• 3g fat

benefits: A good source of complex carbohydrates and provides energy.

1 teaspoon salt:

• 0 calories
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Enhances flavor and regulates the balance of fluids in the body.

1 tablespoon sugar:

• 49 calories
• 12g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Adds sweetness and contributes to the texture of the dough.

1/2 cup unsalted butter:

• 813 calories
• 0g carbohydrates
• 1g protein
• 92g fat

benefits: Adds richness and flavor to the dough, providing essential fats.

1 cup warm water:

• 0 calories
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Aids in the hydration and binding of the dough ingredients.

Filling:

1 lb ground beef (lean):

• 1008 calories
• 0g carbohydrates
• 120g protein
• 60g fat

benefits: Rich in protein and iron, essential for muscle and blood health.

1 onion:

• 46 calories
• 11g carbohydrates
• 1g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Adds flavor and is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

2 cloves garlic:

• 8 calories
• 2g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

1 teaspoon ground cumin:

• 8 calories
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 1g fat

benefits: Adds a warm, earthy flavor and may have digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

1 teaspoon paprika:

• 6 calories
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Provides a mild, sweet heat and is rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

1/2 teaspoon chili powder:

• 4 calories
• 1g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Adds spice and may have metabolism-boosting properties.

Salt and pepper:

• 0 calories
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: Enhance overall flavor and seasoning.

1/2 cup green peas:

• 31 calories
• 6g carbohydrates
• 2g protein
• 0g fat

benefits: High in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to overall nutrition.

2 hard-boiled eggs:

• 154 calories
• 1g carbohydrates
• 13g protein
• 10g fat

benefits: Excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

1/4 cup black olives:

• 44 calories
• 2g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 4g fat

benefits: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, contributing to heart health.

Vegetable oil for frying:

Approximately 1 cup:

• 1927 calories
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g protein
• 218g fat

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and quantities used. It's essential to note that the nutritional content may change depending on factors like cooking methods and ingredient variations.