Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey through the heart of Colombian cuisine with these irresistible Papas Rellenas! Imagine biting into a golden, crispy exterior that gives way to a creamy potato shell, revealing a molten center of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. These aren't just potato balls – they're a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Colombia, promising a comfort food experience like no other.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Breadcrumbs for coating
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes by boiling them whole with skin on until tender. Once cooked, peel and mash the potatoes thoroughly, ensuring no lumps remain. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
- For the meat filling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the meat mixture from heat and let it cool completely. Mix in grated cheese to create a rich, flavorful filling.
- Take a portion of the cooled mashed potatoes and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the meat and cheese mixture in the center.
- Carefully fold the potato around the filling, shaping it into an oval or ball, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed. Repeat with remaining potato and filling.
- Prepare a coating station: beat the egg in one bowl, and place breadcrumbs in another bowl.
- Dip each potato ball first into the beaten egg, then roll thoroughly in breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded potato balls into the hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the papas rellenas with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot, optionally with aji sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your authentic Colombian papas rellenas!
Tips
- Potato Temperature Matters: Ensure your mashed potatoes are completely cooled before shaping to prevent them from falling apart during handling.
- Seal Carefully: When enclosing the meat filling, use gentle but firm pressure to create a tight seal, preventing the filling from leaking during frying.
- Oil Temperature is Crucial: Maintain a consistent 350°F (175°C) for even, golden-brown frying. Use a cooking thermometer for precision.
- Don't Overcrowd: Fry the papas rellenas in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispy results.
- Drain Excess Oil: Let the fried papas rellenas rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil and keep them crisp.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare and bread the papas rellenas in advance, then refrigerate until ready to fry, making them perfect for entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
