Ham & Cheese Empanadas

Ham & Cheese Empanadas

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup ham (finely chopped)

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon oregano (optional)

• For Assembly and Cooking:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

• In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.

• Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until you have a crumbly mixture.

• Beat an egg and mix it into the flour mixture.

• Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Add more water if the dough is too dry, or more flour if it's too sticky.

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a separate bowl, combine the chopped ham, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, black pepper, and oregano. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.

• Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles.

• Place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle.

• Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges.

• Beat an egg and brush the empanadas with egg wash for a golden finish.

4. Cook the Empanadas:

• Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).

• Fry the empanadas in batches, turning once, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

• Serve the empanadas warm with your choice of dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are.

Tips:

• You can also bake these empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown if you prefer a lighter option.

• Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like onion, bell pepper, or different types of cheese.

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