Mighty Saltenas (Saltenas de Graciela)

Joy1996's Note:

An odd name for a flavorful meat-filled "tortilla". This recipe is from Bolivia.

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 30 Saltenas

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 dash salt
• 2/3 cup melted butter
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 3 teaspoons sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 -1 1/2 lb ground beef
• salsa

Directions:

1. Brown the ground beef and season to taste with salt and pepper (Note: you may saute some onion and garlic with the beef for added flavor).
2. Drain and set aside.
3. Place flour in a large bowl and add the melted butter; mix well.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
5. Dissolve the salt and sugar in the warm water; add to the flour mixture and stir until everything sticks together.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured cutting board and knead, adding flour as needed.
7. When the dough is"dried" with the flour you've added, separate it into 30 small balls of dough.
8. Using a rolling pin, roll out each ball on a lightly floured surface, creating a small"tortilla.
9. "Add 1-2 heaping tablespoons beef to each tortilla.
10. Lightly moisten the outer rim of the tortilla with water, fold dough over and, using a fork, crimp edges.
11. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry saltenas in oil until lightly browned.
12. Remove from oil, place on paper towels, and brush each with melted butter.
13. Serve with salsa.
14. Makes 30 saltenas.