Time and Servings:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 300 kcal
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 250mg
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup sofrito
- 1/4 cup flour (for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef with sofrito, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
- Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature for easier handling.
- Form Potato Balls:
- Take a portion of mashed potato (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it in your hand. Place a small amount of beef filling in the center, then carefully shape the mashed potato around the filling to form a sealed ball. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
- Coat the Potato Balls:
- Roll each potato ball lightly in flour, then dip into the beaten egg to coat.
- Fry the Potato Balls:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated potato balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per ball. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve the papas rellenas warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips for Success:
- Consistent Size: Make the potato balls uniform for even frying.
- Chill if Needed: If the mashed potatoes are too soft, refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes before forming balls.
- Alternative Coating: Use breadcrumbs instead of flour for an extra crispy exterior.
- Sofrito Substitute: If you don’t have sofrito, sauté onions, garlic, and peppers as a quick substitute.
Wine, Cocktail, Drink Pairing:
- Pair these savory treats with a chilled Sangria for a fruity contrast, or enjoy with a refreshing glass of Cerveza Medalla, a light Puerto Rican beer.
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