Vegan Black Bean Hand Pies

These are deliciously flaky, aromatic, and spicy, making them the ideal snack for outdoor events and picnics in the summer. These Mexican hand pies are the greatest since they are made with homemade empanada dough, ground beef, Mexican spices, and cheese.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold vegan butter or coconut oil, cubed
1/2 cup cold water

Instructions

For the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and sauté until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.

For the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the cold vegan butter or coconut oil cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to incorporate the fat into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. You may not need to use all of the water.
Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assembly

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Cut the dough into circles using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
Place a spoonful of the black bean filling onto one half of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to cover the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the hand pies.
Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.