Cheesy Beef Pastries (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Flaky Dough

01 - 1/4 cup (60ml) chilled water
02 - 1 large egg, whisked
03 - 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
04 - 2 cups (250g) plain flour
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Savory Filling

06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 cup (30g) chopped green olives (optional)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground smoked paprika
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped small
11 - 1/2 pound (225g) minced beef
12 - 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
13 - 2 tablespoons tomato purée
14 - 1/2 small onion, diced fine
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
16 - 1/2 cup (50g) grated cheddar or mozzarella
17 - 2 garlic cloves, crushed
18 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

→ Assembly

19 - 1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water to brush on top

# Instructions:

01 - In a bowl, stir together the salt and flour. Use a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture until it looks crumbly. Combine the egg and water, and mix it in until it forms a dough. Add a touch more water if it’s dry. Briefly knead, shape into a disk, wrap up, and let it chill for 30 minutes or more.
02 - Warm the olive oil in a pan and cook the onion and garlic until they soften. Toss in the beef and cook until browned all over. Pour off extra fat. Stir in tomato purée, spices, and seasonings, letting it cook briefly for flavor. After taking off heat, add parsley, olives (if desired), and cheese. Cool slightly before using.
03 - Roll your dough out thin, about 1/8 inch, on a floured countertop. Cut out 4-5 inch circles, scoop around 2 tablespoons of filling in the middle, fold each into a semi-circle, and seal the edges with a fork. Lightly brush the tops with the egg wash.
04 - Set the empanadas on a tray lined with parchment. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Give them a few minutes to cool before enjoying.

# Notes:

01 - You can freeze extras uncooked for up to three months
02 - Premade dough works great if you're short on time
03 - Fry at 350°F for a crispier option; cook 3-4 minutes per side

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