Cheese Empanadas

Ingredients

• 1 12- pack package empanada dough (we use La Saltena brand, make sure you get the kind specifically for frying)
• 3/4 lb. jack cheese (grated)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a bowl, mix together the beaten egg and jack cheese.

2. 2

   Lay out the empanada dough rounds and put some water into a bowl.

3. 3

   Using a pastry brush (or your fingers), put water around the edges of each empanada dough round.

4. 4

   Place about 1 heaping tablespoon of the jack cheese mixture on each round (may vary depending on the size of your rounds.)

5. 5

   Fold over each round into a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork.

6. 6

   Heat oil in a deep saucepan to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. 7

   Prepare a cooling rack covered paper towels and keep close to the frying station.

8. 8

   When oil is heated fully, place 2-3 empanadas (based on the size of your pan, don't overcrowd them) and cook them until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes.

9. 9

   Repeat until all empanadas are cooked, letting cool on the prepared cooling rack.

10. 10

    Serve hot, and with powdered sugar if desired. Yummy! Enjoy :)