Super Cheesy Birria Empanadas

Ingredients

For Birria Filling:

1. 1 lb birria meat (beef or goat), cooked and shredded
2. 1 cup birria broth (from cooking the meat)
3. 1 onion, finely chopped
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
6. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
7. Salt and pepper to taste

For Empanada Dough:

1. 3 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
3. 1/2 cup water, cold
4. 1 teaspoon salt

For Assembly:

1. Shredded Oaxaca cheese or any melting cheese of your choice
2. Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

Steps

Birria Filling: Step 1: In a pan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.

Step 2: Add shredded birria meat, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in birria broth and cook until the mixture is well combined.

Step 3: Simmer the birria filling until most of the liquid is absorbed. Set aside to cool.

Empanada Dough: Step 4: In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour, cold diced butter, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Slowly add cold water while pulsing until the dough comes together.

Step 6: Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead it briefly. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assembly: Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 8: Roll out the chilled dough and cut it into circles for empanadas.

Step 9: Place a spoonful of birria filling and a generous amount of shredded cheese in the center of each dough circle.

Step 10: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Step 11: Brush the empanadas with egg wash.

Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 13: Allow the Super Cheesy Birria Empanadas to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these delectable empanadas filled with the richness of birria meat and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a flavorful snack or meal!