Ham & Cheese Empanadas - Easy Recipes🔥

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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