CHICKEN AND BLACK BEAN EMPANADAS

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Grease 3 or 4 baking sheets.
• Combine black beans, chicken, Mexican cheese, salsa, cumin, and hot sauce together in the bowl of a food processor; process until combined.
• Stir flour and salt together in a bowl. Cut in pepper Jack cheese and shortening until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Add milk and 1 beaten egg; stir until well mixed.
• Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently, 10 to 15 strokes. Divide dough in half; keep remaining half wrapped in plastic wrap until you are ready for it.
• Roll 1/2 of the pastry dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut using a 3-inch round cutter. Re-roll scraps and repeat until dough is used up. Repeat with remaining dough.
• Place 1 rounded teaspoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Moisten edges with some water and fold in half. Seal edges with a fork. Prick the top of each empanada several times. Place onto the prepared baking sheets.
• Stir remaining egg and 1 tablespoon water together in a small bowl. Brush over each empanada.
• Bake in the preheated oven until brown, 15 to 18 minutes.