Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough forms a ball.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
5. Cut out 3-inch circles and place 1 teaspoon of ham and 1 teaspoon of cheese in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Place the empanadas on a greased baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes 12 empanadas
Nutritional Information: (per empanada) Calories: 150; Fat: 8g; Carbohydrates: 12g; Protein: 6g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the ham, you can use cooked bacon or cooked chicken.
- For the cheese, you can use any type of shredded cheese.
Variations:
- You can add other fillings such as cooked vegetables, cooked ground beef, or cooked sausage.
- You can also add spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or chili powder to the filling.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to seal the edges of the empanadas well so that the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more cold water.
Storage Instructions:
- Empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Empanadas can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the empanadas with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
- Serve the empanadas with a side of salsa or hot sauce.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of rice and beans.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Rice and beans
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more cold water.
- If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the ham and cheese completely before adding it to the empanadas.
- Make sure to store the empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Food History:
- Empanadas are a traditional Spanish dish that is made with a variety of fillings.
Flavor Profiles:
- The empanadas have a savory flavor from the ham and cheese, and a hint of salt from the dough.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the empanadas as an appetizer or as a main dish.
- Serve the empanadas with a side of rice and beans or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Spanish