Salteñas

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 10 tablespoons lard
• 2/3 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup peeled and diced potato
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground chili pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 hard boiled egg, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the cold water and mix until the dough holds together.
3. Knead the dough for two minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about five minutes.
5. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about five minutes. Add the potato, cumin, black pepper, chili pepper, and oregano. Simmer for five minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from the heat and stir in the raisins, parsley, and chopped egg (if using). Set aside to cool.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out 4-inch circles and place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
9. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork.
10. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Salteñas are a popular street food in Bolivia.
• They can be served hot or cold.
• They are often served with a hot sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers.