Empanadas de Carne (Beef Empanadas)

To Make the Baked Empanada Dough:

1. Combine the salt and water in a small bowl and stir until the salt is dissolved. Tip the flour into the bowl of a food processor. With the motor running, slowly pour the melted butter into the flour, followed by the salt water. Process until the mixture begins to come together to form a rough dough (do not overmix). 
2. Tip the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and knead for a couple of minutes until you have a smooth dough ball. Divide the dough in half (this makes it easier to work with) and cover with a clean tea towel.
3. Leave for about 1 hour at room temperature before using. The dough can also be wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 1 day or frozen for up to 1 month. Bring to room temperature before using.
4. Working with one piece of dough at a time, on a lightly floured work surface, roll the dough into a 2 millimeters (1/6 inches) thick circle. Cover, and set aside for a further 1 hour. Use a pastry cutter to cut out 12 centimeter (4 3/4 inch) circles of dough, stacking the circles as you go, until you have 24 circles.

To Make the Beef Empanadas:

1. Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–15 minutes, until softened.
2. Stir through the minced beef and cook, stirring to break up any larger pieces of meat, for 8–10 minutes, until browned.
3. Stir through the cumin and paprika. Add 250 milliliters (8 1/2 fluid ounces/1 cup) water and cook, uncovered, for 30 minutes, until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely.
4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two baking trays with baking paper.
5. Place 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the centre of each dough circle and lightly brush the edges with beaten egg.
6. Fold the dough to enclose the filling and press the edges together to seal. Crimp or pleat the dough, then transfer to the baking trays.
7. Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg, then bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes, until puffed and golden.