Vegan Spinach Feta Empanadas (Printable Version)

Golden, crispy vegan empanadas filled with spinach and vegan feta for a flavorful plant-based treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1 cup warm water, plus extra as needed
04 - 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

→ Filling

05 - 7 oz vegan feta cheese, crumbled
06 - 2 oz fresh spinach, finely chopped
07 - Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), finely chopped, optional

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a cohesive dough forms, adding extra water by tablespoon if necessary. Mix in vegetable oil and knead on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean cloth and let rest for 20 to 30 minutes.
02 - In a separate bowl, mix crumbled vegan feta with finely chopped spinach. Incorporate fresh herbs if using, to enhance flavor.
03 - Divide the dough into four equal portions. Rest for an additional 20 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin disc.
04 - Moisten the edges of each disc with water. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half. Fold the dough over and press firmly along edges to seal completely.
05 - Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry empanadas in batches, cooking 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
06 - Serve empanadas warm as a snack, side dish, or main course.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Resting the dough allows gluten to relax, resulting in a tender and pliable texture.