Papas Rellenas are a delicious Latin American dish that consists of stuffed potato balls. These crispy and flavorful snacks are popular throughout Latin America, with variations in different countries. Here’s a basic recipe for Papas Rellenas that you can try:
Ingredients:
For the Potato Filling:
- 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 ground pork (you can also use a mix of both)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green peas (frozen or canned)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 12 pitted green olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
For the Coating:
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potato Filling:
a. Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Boil them until they are soft and easily mashable.
b. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
a. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
b. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent.
c. Add the ground meat and cook until it’s browned and crumbled.
d. Season the meat with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
e. Stir in the green peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, olives, and raisins (if using). Cook for a few more minutes until well combined.
f. Remove from heat and let the meat filling cool.
3. Assemble the Papas Rellenas:
a. Take a small amount of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
b. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of the potato round.
c. Carefully fold the potato over the filling, shaping it into a ball. Seal the edges to encase the filling completely.
d. Repeat this process with the remaining potato and meat filling, forming all the papas rellenas.
4. Coat and Fry:
a. Roll each potato ball in beaten eggs, ensuring they are coated evenly.
b. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
c. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
d. Carefully place the papas rellenas in the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
e. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve:
a. Serve your Papas Rellenas hot, either as a snack or a side dish.
b. They are delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce such as salsa criolla or aji sauce.
Enjoy your homemade Papas Rellenas, a popular Latin American treat!
