Vegetable Empanadas

Vegetable Empanadas are delicious hand-held pastries filled with a savory mix of vegetables and spices, perfect for a satisfying lunch. These golden-brown delights are not only tasty but also easy to make, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 1 1/2 cups
• Unsalted butter - 1/4 cup, cold and cubed
• Salt - 1/2 tsp
• Ice water - 4-5 tbsp
• Olive oil - 1 tbsp
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Red bell pepper - 1, diced
• Zucchini - 1 small, diced
• Carrot - 1 medium, grated
• Frozen peas - 1/2 cup
• Ground cumin - 1/2 tsp
• Paprika - 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper - 1/4 tsp
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tbsp, chopped
• Egg - 1, beaten (for egg wash)

Steps

1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add red bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in frozen peas, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in cilantro. Let cool.
3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thick and cut into 5-inch circles.
4. Place a spoonful of the vegetable mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
5. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 40 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 25 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables.
• Provides a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion.

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