Empanadas Delight: Crafting the Perfect Dough

Embark on a culinary journey through Latin American cuisine with the art of empanadas! These delectable pastries are celebrated for their diverse fillings and, of course, the heart of it all – the empanada dough. Here's a simple yet delightful recipe to create the perfect dough:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp. white vinegar

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly and then add the water and vinegar.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
6. Form the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before using.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles for the empanadas.
8. Fill the empanadas with your desired filling, leaving a small border around the edge of the dough.
9. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal.
10. Bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Note: This recipe yields enough dough for about 12-15 empanadas, depending on the size. You can also freeze the dough for later use by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Get ready to savor the flavors of Latin America with your homemade empanadas – a culinary delight that will surely become a favorite!