Empanadas

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen puff pastry
• 12 ounces (340 g) lean ground beef or chicken
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium green pepper, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika
• ¹/₂ tsp. (2 ml) ground cumin
• ¹/₂ cup (125 ml) chopped tomato
• 1 cup (250 mL) sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

Cooking Instructions

1. Thaw puff pastry according to the instructions on the package.
2. Heat oil in a pan, combine the meat with the onion, green pepper and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned.
3. Add the paprika, cumin, chopped tomato and continue to cook for until vegetables become tender.
4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Centigrade).
5. Cut the pastry pup sheet into 6 inch squares.
6. Put the meat mixture in the center of each square. It should be possible to seal the square around the mixture.
7. Top the mixture with the shredded cheese.
8. Fold the square diagonally sealing the edges by applying pressure with a fork.
9. Place on a cookie sheet.
10. Bake empanadas for 18 to 20 minutes or until puffed and lightly browned. Serve.