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Ingredients
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Dough
Filling
For frying
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 2
Add Egg and Water
Add the egg yolk and cold water to the flour mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together. If needed, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until a smooth dough forms.
- 3
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.
Filling Preparation
- 4
Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- 5
Add Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- 6
Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the green olives, raisins, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Assembly and Cooking
- 7
Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- 8
Fill the Empanadas
Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers for a decorative touch.
- 9
Fry the Empanadas
In a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the empanadas in batches, frying until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- 10
Serve
Serve the empanadas warm, optionally with a side of chimichurri or your favorite dipping sauce.
