Shrimp Empanadas (Empanadillas de Camaron)

To prepare the dough:

Step 1

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a hook attachment, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and butter. Mix on medium speed to combine the ingredients, then add the beer.

Step 2

2. Continue mixing to form a smooth, elastic dough, 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the dough out into a mixing bowl, and rest covered in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before using.

To prepare the filling:

Step 3

1. In a medium skillet over low heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and garlic, and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 4

2. Add the tomato, paprika, pinch of cloves, cumin, parsley, and shrimp, and cook until the shrimp are cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cool.

To form the empanadas:

Step 5

1. Roll the dough out onto a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut out into 4-inch rounds. Brush the rounds with egg wash and fill each with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of shrimp filling. Fold over into a half moon and press the edges to seal (for a decorative touch, crimp the sealed edges with a fork). Repeat as needed to use up all of the dough and filling.

Step 6

2. In a medium pot over medium-heat heat, add enough oil to come about 2 inches up the side of the pot. Heat the oil to 350°F. Set a cooling rack over a sheet pan and reserve nearby.

Step 7

3. Working in batches, gently fry the empanadas until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Reserve cooked empanadas on the cooling screen while the remaining finish frying. Serve warm.