FRIED MUSHROOM AND CHEESE EMPANADAS

Fried Mushroom and Cheese Empanadas image

Whatever their shape and size, empanadas are a very worthwhile addition to a cook's repertory. I found that the dough is easy to make in a food processor, so whipping up a dozen or more is not a challenge. Baking, instead of frying, is a healthier and convenient option. But the dough has to be rolled as thin as possible, especially for folded Chilean-style empanadas that result in several layers along the edges.

Provided by Florence Fabricant

Time 1h

Yield 24 cocktail empanadas

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 1/3 cups minced onion
12 ounces white mushrooms, minced
3 tablespoons dry white wine
Salt
fresh black pepper
Empanada dough (see recipe)
6 ounces Gouda, minced
1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Vegetable oil for deep-frying

Steps:

Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet. Add onion and sauté on medium until soft. Add mushrooms and sauté until ingredients start to brown. Add wine and cook, stirring, until it evaporates. Remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper.
Roll dough as thin as possible. Cut 3-inch circles. Scraps can be re-rolled one time. Place some cheese on one half of each circle and top with mushroom mixture, leaving a 1/2 -inch border around filling. Brush egg on empty side of circle, fold dough over to make a half-circle and tightly crimp edges.
Heat vegetable oil 2 inches deep in a deep-fryer, sauté pan or wok. When oil reaches 375 degrees, fry empanadas, six at a time, a few minutes on each side, until lightly browned. Drain on absorbent paper. Allow to cool briefly before serving.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 92, UnsaturatedFat 6 grams, Carbohydrate 2 grams, Fat 8 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 3 grams, SaturatedFat 2 grams, Sodium 94 milligrams, Sugar 1 gram, TransFat 0 grams