Empañadas

These savory and sweet empañadas are stuffed with a yummy combination of ground beef, cinnamon, almonds and raisins.

Recipe Ingredients:

1/4 cup raisins
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (16-ounce) jar ORTEGA Salsa, Thick & Chunky - divided use
1/4 cup slivered almonds
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
1 pound frozen bread dough, thawed
1 large egg, lightly beaten

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine raisins and vinegar in small bowl; soak for 15 to 20 minutes or until raisins are plump.
3. Cook beef, onion and garlic in large skillet until beef is browned; drain. Add 1/2 cup salsa, almonds, raisins, sugar, cinnamon and salt. Bring to a boil. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until flavors are blended.
4. Divide dough into 6 pieces; roll into balls. On well-floured board, roll each ball into a 6-inch circle. Place 1/2 cup meat filling on bottom half of circle; sprinkle with cheese. Fold top half of dough over filling; crimp edges with tines of fork. Pierce top with fork. Place on greased cookie sheet; brush with egg.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Serve with remaining salsa.

Makes 6 servings.

Recipe and photograph are the property of Nestlé® and Meals.com, used with permission.