Mexican Empanadas with Cheesy Beef Filling

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1 cup ice water
• 1 unit egg, beaten for egg wash

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 unit onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, ground

Method

1. 01
   In a bowl, combine sifted flour and salt. Add diced butter and blend with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 02
   Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. 03
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. 04
   Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. 05
   Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. 06
   Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
7. 07
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness.
8. 08
   Cut dough into 4-inch circles. Place a spoonful of beef filling onto each circle, fold over, and seal edges with a fork.
9. 09
   Place empanadas on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.