Causa Rellena – Peru

Papa Rellena is a delicious Dominican dish consisting of mashed potato stuffed with seasoned ground meat, onions, peppers, and other flavorful ingredients. These stuffed potato balls are then fried to a golden perfection. Here’s a traditional recipe for making Papa Rellena:

Ingredients:

For the potato mixture:

• 2 pounds (about 4 large) russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the meat filling:

• 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
• Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
• Bring the water to a boil and simmer the potatoes until they are fork-tender, usually about 15-20 minutes.
• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

2. Mash the Potatoes:

• Mash the potatoes while they are still hot.
• Add the butter and milk and continue mashing until you have smooth and creamy mashed potatoes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Meat Filling:

• In a large skillet or frying pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onions and bell peppers and sauté until they become translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the ground meat and cook until it’s browned and crumbled.
• Add the tomato paste, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Stir in the chopped olives and hard-boiled eggs. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Assemble the Papa Rellena:

• Take a handful of mashed potatoes and flatten it in your hand.
• Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of the potato and then encase the filling with the potato, forming a ball. Seal it completely.
• Repeat this process with the remaining mashed potatoes and filling.

5. Fry the Papa Rellena:

• Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to cover the Papa Rellena completely.
• Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the stuffed potato balls.
• Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Remove the Papa Rellena from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:

• Serve the Papa Rellena hot, garnished with additional olives if desired.
• These are often enjoyed with a side of Dominican-style coleslaw or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Enjoy your homemade Papa Rellena, a flavorful and comforting Dominican dish!