This recipe makes enough for 25 empanadas; leftovers make a satisfying filling for quesadillas.
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, peeled and diced
1 large green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb chopped cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken
1/2 cup tomato sauce
Pinch of cinnamon
1/4 cup sliced, stuffed green olives
1/4 cup raisins
1 Tbsp capers
1/2 cup cooked (or canned and drained) black beans
2 Tbsp white vinegar
1/4 tsp sugar
2-3 Tbsp Tabasco sauce (I used mild green jalapeño Tabasco; if you use regular hot sauce, start with 1-2 Tbsp)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 package of 10 discos
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and green pepper until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes more. Add the chopped turkey or chicken, then stir in the remaining ingredients, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the sauce is a thick consistency and no liquid remains. Set aside to cool, or refrigerate (or freeze) for later use.
Remove discos from the freezer and set on the countertop to soften.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a Silpat (silicone liner) or parchment paper. Place a small bowl of cold water on your work surface.
In another bowl, beat one large egg with one teaspoon of water to make an egg wash, and set aside.
Set out one disco. Place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center. Wet your finger with water and run it around the edge of the disco. Fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, then take a fork and press firmly into the dough all around the folded edge. Place the empanada on the baking sheet. Make the remaining empanadas; then, using a brush, paint each with a bit of the egg wash.
Bake in the middle of the oven for 11-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve hot or at room temperature. Cooked empanadas can be frozen and reheated in a 350°F oven.