Papas Rellenas – If you’re looking for a comforting. And satisfying dish. Look no further than this Papas Rellenas Recipe. These delicious stuffed potatoes. Are filled with a savory ground beef mixture. Coated in a crispy breadcrumb layer. And fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty meal. Or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. This recipe is sure to become a favorite. In your household.
I still remember the first time. I made this Papas Rellenas recipe. My husband and child. Were eagerly waiting in the kitchen. Drawn by the delicious aroma. As we all took our first bite. Their eyes lit up with joy. It was an instant hit. And now it’s a cherished family favorite. That brings us all together.
What makes this Papas Rellenas truly stand out?
What makes this Papas Rellenas recipe stand out? Is its perfect blend of flavors. And textures. The creamy mashed potatoes. Encase a savory ground beef filling. Seasoned with cumin. And tomato paste. Creating a mouth-watering combination. The crispy breadcrumb coating. Adds the perfect crunch. Making every bite. A delightful experience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer. Snack or main course.
What You Need To Make This Papas Rellenas Recipe?
Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets. For the best texture. These will mash smoothly. And hold together well. For forming into balls.
Vegetable Oil: Used for both cooking the filling. And frying the potato balls. Opt for a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola. Or sunflower oil.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds a fresh crunch. And vibrant color to the filling. Make sure it’s chopped finely. For even cooking.
Onion: Provides a savory base flavor. Dice it finely. To blend well with the other ingredients.
Garlic: Essential for that rich, aromatic taste. Freshly minced garlic is best. For maximum flavor.
Ground Beef: Gives a hearty, savory filling. You can substitute with ground turkey. Or a meatless alternative if preferred.
Tomato Paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor. And a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
Distilled White Vinegar: Enhances the flavor. And adds a slight tang to the filling.
Ground Cumin and Black Pepper: These spices add warmth. And depth to the filling. Adjust to your taste.
Eggs: Help bind the potato mixture. And create a crispy coating when fried.
Dry Bread Crumbs: Provide a crunchy exterior. Panko breadcrumbs work well for extra crunch.
All-Purpose Flour: Used for dredging the potato balls before frying. To ensure a golden crust.
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Steps To Make Papas Rellenas:
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cubing your potatoes. Boil them in salted water. Until they’re super tender. About 20 minutes. Drain. And mash them with a bit of salt until smooth. Let them cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil. Toss in the chopped green bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cooking until everything is soft. And fragrant. Add in the ground beef. And crank up the heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Then stir in tomato paste, vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it all cook together. Until the flavors meld. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Balls: Take a handful of the mashed potatoes. Split it into two portions. And form each into a small bowl shape. Fill with the beef mixture. Then seal and smooth it into a ball. Repeat with the rest of the potatoes and filling.
Step 4: Bread the Balls: Roll each potato ball in flour. Dip in beaten eggs. And coat with bread crumbs. Place them on a lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for a few hours to firm up.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection: Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches. Until they’re golden and crispy. About 3 minutes each. Drain on paper towels. And serve hot.
Tip:
Make sure the mashed potatoes are completely cool. Before you start forming the balls. If the potatoes are still warm. They’ll be too soft. And difficult to work with. To speed up the cooling process. Spread the mashed potatoes out on a baking sheet. This way, they cool evenly. And faster. Making it easier to shape the balls. And fill them. Without falling apart.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the breaded potato balls for up to 2 days. Or freeze them for longer storage. Just fry them. When you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with Papas Rellenas?
These stuffed potatoes pair well with a fresh salad. Dipping sauces like aioli or chimichurri. Or even a side of rice and beans.
How do I ensure the potato balls don’t fall apart while frying?
Make sure the mashed potatoes are well-cooled. And firm. Before forming the balls. Refrigerating them before frying. Helps them hold their shape.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Papas Rellenas Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 ½ tsps salt divided
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- ½ c chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 tsps tomato paste
- 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
- 2 tsps ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 4 large eggs
- 2 c dry bread crumbs
- 1 c all-purpose flour
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Cook potatoes in salted water until tender, then mash with salt and let cool.
- Cook Filling: Sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic in oil. Add ground beef, tomato paste, vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is done.
- Prepare Balls: Form mashed potatoes into balls, fill with beef mixture, and seal.
- Bread the Balls: Coat each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in bread crumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F and fry potato balls until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
