Empanada Dough

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup cold water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)

Meat Filling

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the egg, water, and vinegar together. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped olives and boiled egg (optional). Allow the filling to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a 4- to 5-inch round cutter.
2. Place about 1–2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
3. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal.

Step 4: Fry the Empanadas

1. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the empanadas in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 3–4 minutes per batch).
3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serving Suggestion

Serve warm with dipping sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or a spicy aioli.

Would you like variations, such as baked empanadas or vegetarian filling ideas? 😊