Apricot-Filled Empanaditas

Apricot-Filled Empanaditas

by Tiago Durand 2 years ago
4.7 (6)
30 minutes
248.6 kcal
42.7 g carbs
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Description

This is a wonderful traditional dessert served at Christmas time in my family. You may omit the cloves if you prefer a less spicy version.

Ingredients
  • 4 cups chopped dried apricots
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 pinch ground cloves
  • 1 (.25 ounce) envelope active dry yeast
  • 1 cup lukewarm water
  • ¼ cup shortening or lard
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 quart oil for frying, or as needed
Directions
  1. 1. Place the dried apricots and 1 1/2 cups of water into a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat, and allow to cool slightly.
  2. 2. In the container of a blender or large food processor, combine the apricots with any remaining water, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Cover, and puree until smooth. Set aside.
  3. 3. Pour 1 cup of water into a large bowl, and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let stand for about 5 minutes to dissolve the yeast. Mix in the shortening and salt. Gradually mix in the flour using a sturdy spoon until the dough is stiff enough to knead on a floured surface. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Do not set aside the dough to rise.
  4. 4. Roll out the dough to 1/4 to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles with a large biscuit cutter or round cookie cutter. Spoon about a tablespoon of the filling in the center of the circles, and fold over. Seal the edges by pressing with your fingers.
  5. 5. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep heavy skillet over medium-high heat, or to 365 degrees F (185 degrees C). Fry the pastries in the hot oil, turning once, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Nutrition Facts
serving: 1 1/2 dozen
calories: 248.6 kcal
carbohydrates: 42.7 g
protein: 3.3 g
saturated fat: 1.4 g
sodium: 132.9 mg
fiber: 2.9 g
sugar: 23.9 g
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