Mini Protein Empanadas

These Mini Protein Empanadas prove you don't have to choose between comfort food and your goals. Made with Fressh Protein Arepa Mix, they're crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and incredibly versatile. Fill them with cheese, shredded chicken, beef, or any filling you love for a healthier take on a Venezuelan favorite.

Ingredients 

Dough

• 1¼ cups Fressh Protein Arepa Mix
• ½ cup hot water
• Salt, to taste

Filling

• Queso blanco (white cheese), cut into small cubes or strips

Or use any filling you like, such as:

• Shredded chicken
• Ground beef
• Pulled pork
• Ham & cheese
• Black beans

Instructions 

1. In a bowl, combine 1¼ cups Fressh Protein Arepa Mix, ½ cup hot water, and salt to taste. Mix until a soft, smooth dough forms. Let the dough rest for 2–3 minutes.
2. Place the dough on top of a plastic wrap to prevent sticking. Flatten it evenly with your hands (wet them before) until it's about ¼ inch thick.
   
3. Place your filling in the center of each dough circle. We used queso blanco, but you can fill them with shredded chicken, beef, ham and cheese, black beans, or any filling you like.
4. Using the plastic wrap to help lift the dough, fold it over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly with your fingers to completely seal the empanada.
5. Using a small bowl, round plate, or large glass, remove the excess dough and set it aside to reuse.
6. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling until all of the mini empanadas are assembled.
7. Arrange the empanadas in a single layer in your air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one. Spray some olive or avocado oil over them.
8. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the empanadas and cook for another 8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Let them cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• If the dough starts cracking, wet your fingertips with a little water and smooth it over.
• Don't overfill the empanadas, or they'll be harder to seal.
• Every air fryer cooks differently, so add a few extra minutes if needed for a crispier finish.