RO*TEL Across America Recipe Contest

Beef Empinadas

by Kelly from TX

Spicy beef and tangy cheese are baked with RO*TEL Tomatoes in a tender crust.

AVERAGE RATING

Category

Appetizer/Snack

Prep Time

30 minutes

Servings

12

Recipe Ingredients

For the dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup lard, or vegetable shortening
3/4 cup warm milk
1 egg, beaten

For the filling:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic
2 tablespoons minced jalapeno pepper
1/4 cup drained RO*TEL tomatoes
4 ounces lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon coriander
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 cup finely shredded colby-jack cheese

Directions

In a medium bowl combine the flour, cheese, salt, and baking powder until well mixed. Add the lard and, with your fingers, work the mixture until the lard is well distributed and no pieces remain.

Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the warm milk. Stir until the mixture forms a ball. You may need to add additional flour if the mixture is too sticky. Cover and allow to rest while you prepare the filling.

In a skillet over medium heat add the oil. Once it begins to shimmer add the onions and cook until they begin to soften, about three minutes. Add the garlic and jalapeno and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.

Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat, until it browns. Add the drained RO*TEL tomatoes and cook for one minute before removing the pan from the heat. Allow to cool for five minutes before adding the shredded cheese.

Heat the oven to 375 F and prepare two sheet pans with parchment paper.

Divide the dough into four pieces, and on a floured surface roll it out until it is very thin (about 1/8 inch thick). Cut out 3″ circles of dough.

Brush the top edge of the dough with egg wash then add a teaspoon of the meat filling. Fold the dough over and press to seal. Crimp the edges with a form. Repeat until you have filled the first pan. Brush the tops with egg wash then bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.