Delight in a Pocket: Pinoy Empanada

Food is culture. A celebration of life, of family and friends. Food is generosity. It is love on a plate. I love eating, but most importantly, I love to cook for the people who matters to me. I love that smile, that appreciation reflected on their face at first bite! It is cloud nine for me!

Today, I'm gonna share to you one of Pinoy favorites, our delight in a pocket: EMPANADA. Our take on pie. It is best served hot. And is on the go! Like you can grab a piece or two and enjoy and smile while walking while eating! Hahaha :-D

For the crust, you will need the following ingredients:
1/2 kg all-purpose flour
3/4 cup margarine/shortening
1 cup white sugar
1 tbsp salt
4 pcs eggyolks
1 cup Sprite/7Up at room temperature
Mix dry ingredients first, then add the margarine, followed by the yolks and the soda last. Knead and let rest for 30 minutes.
Cook empanada fillings. In a pan, sauté minced garlic, chopped onions and bell pepper in a tablespoon of margarine. Add 1/2 kg ground pork. Season with salt and pepper. (I like to season my dish at the start or in the middle of my cooking.)
Once the meat has rendered its fat, add in diced carrots, chayote, potatoes and raisins. You can also add some pork and beans, corn kernels and green peas. Season with oyster sauce and chili garlic sauce.
Roll out dough and stuff with fillings and cheese. Use empanada molder to form pockets or you can also use fork to seal the edges or your fingers.
Deepfry until golden brown. (You can also bake empanadas. Brush egg wash before baking to give it a nice golden brown color.)
Serve with your favorite sauce.