Combine the flour and salt, add the melted butter or lard, and gradually pour in the water. Knead into a smooth dough, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Dice the tomatoes into small cubes and crush the garlic. Grate or tear the mozzarella into smaller pieces.
Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté the garlic briefly, then add the tomatoes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in the pepper and oregano.
Once the tomato mixture has cooled slightly, mix it with the mozzarella. This will give the filling a juicy, stretchy consistency.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3 mm thick. Cut out circles with a diameter of 10-12 cm. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
Fold the dough in half, seal the edges with a fork or by hand to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Place the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush the tops with a little water or oil. This helps them to develop a golden-brown color.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. They are ready when the cheese is melted and the pastry is crispy and golden brown.
Let them rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm. Great on their own or with a salad, either for brunch or dinner.
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