Homemade Colombian Papas Rellenas Recipe: Crispy Potato Bliss

Crispy golden potato shells burst with flavor in this mouthwatering Colombian papas rellenas recipe that celebrates traditional comfort food.

These delectable potato pockets pack a savory punch with seasoned ground beef nestled inside crisp, golden exteriors.

Every bite tells a story of Colombian culinary heritage and home-style cooking.

The recipe blends simple ingredients into a delightful dish that transforms humble potatoes into something extraordinary.

Soft mashed potatoes encase spiced meat, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Serve these irresistible papas rellenas as a hearty appetizer or satisfying main course that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Colombia.

Prepare to fall in love with this classic Colombian street food that promises to become a new family favorite.

FAQs

• What ingredients are traditionally used in Colombian papas rellenas filling?

The traditional filling includes ground beef, diced tomatoes, scallions, and typical Colombian spices like cumin and garlic powder.

• Are papas rellenas difficult to make for beginners?

While they require some technique, they’re manageable with practice. The key steps are mashing potatoes smoothly, creating an even potato coating, and carefully sealing the filling inside.

• Can I prepare papas rellenas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato balls and filling in advance, then refrigerate for several hours before frying. This can help the balls hold their shape better during cooking.

Colombian Papas Rellenas Why They Stand Out

• Dive into a classic Colombian dish that wraps hearty ground beef inside creamy mashed potatoes, creating a mouthwatering comfort meal that hugs your taste buds.
• Learn easy steps like boiling, mashing, and deep-frying that transform basic ingredients into a delicious specialty without requiring professional chef skills.
• Personalize the filling with different meats, spices, or vegetarian alternatives, making this recipe a versatile crowd-pleaser for family dinners and gatherings.
• Impress friends and family with golden-brown crispy potato balls that look professionally prepared but are surprisingly simple to create at home.

Papas Rellenas Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:

• Potatoes: Starchy and creamy foundation that creates the outer shell of the Colombian Papas Rellenas.

• Ground Beef: Flavorful protein that provides the savory core of the stuffed potato.
• Tomatoes: Fresh ingredient that adds moisture and brightness to the meat mixture.
• Scallions: Aromatic herb that brings a mild onion flavor to the filling.

• Flour, Eggs, Cream: Essential components that create a smooth, adhesive batter for coating the potato balls.
• Breadcrumbs: Crispy outer layer that provides a golden and crunchy exterior when fried.

• Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of both potato base and meat filling.
• Additional Seasonings: Spices that add depth and complexity to the meat mixture.

• Cooking Oil: Medium for deep frying that transforms the potato balls into a crispy, golden delicacy.

Tools for Shaping Perfect Papas Rellenas

• Large pot: Essential for boiling potatoes and creating a tender base.
• Potato masher or rivet: Perfect for smoothly mashing warm potatoes without lumps.
• Skillet: Crucial for cooking beef filling and sautéing vegetables.
• Mixing bowl: Needed for preparing potato mixture and batter.
• Whisk: Great for blending ingredients smoothly.
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan: Key for achieving golden, crispy exterior.
• Slotted spoon: Helps safely remove potato balls from hot oil.
• Cutting board: Used for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Required for dicing tomatoes and scallions precisely.

Steps to Make Colombian Papas Rellenas

Step 1: Prepare Potato Base

Scrub potatoes thoroughly under running water.

Peel the skin completely using a sharp vegetable peeler.

Chop potatoes into even-sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking.

Place potato pieces in a large pot of cold water with a generous pinch of salt.

Bring water to a rolling boil and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Create Smooth Potato Mixture

Carefully drain potatoes in a colander, allowing excess water to evaporate.

Transfer potatoes to a large mixing bowl while still warm.

Use a potato masher or ricer to break down potatoes into a smooth, creamy consistency.

Season with salt and ground black pepper.

Allow potato mixture to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 3: Craft Savory Meat Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic
• Chopped bell peppers

Add ground beef and cook until completely browned.

• Cumin
• Paprika
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook filling until moisture evaporates and meat develops a rich, deep color.

Step 4: Shape Potato Balls

Take a handful of cooled potato mixture and flatten into a thin disc on your palm.

Place a spoonful of prepared meat filling in the center.

Carefully fold potato around filling, sealing edges completely.

Roll gently between palms to create a perfect round shape.

Step 5: Create Crispy Coating

• Flour seasoned with salt and pepper
• Beaten eggs whisked with milk
• Fine breadcrumbs or cornmeal

Dredge each potato ball first in flour, then egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Ensure complete and even coverage.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.

Carefully lower potato balls into hot oil, working in small batches.

Fry until exterior turns a beautiful golden brown, approximately 4-6 minutes.

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer crispy Colombian papas rellenas to a serving platter.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro.

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like aji or salsa verde.

Papas Rellenas Pro Advice for Great Texture

• Use a ricer or potato masher for smooth, lump-free mashed potatoes that hold together easily when forming balls.
• Let mashed potatoes cool completely to prevent soggy coating and help balls maintain their shape during frying.
• Add extra spices like cumin or paprika to the meat filling for more authentic Colombian flavor depth.
• Pinch potato edges firmly to prevent filling from leaking during frying, ensuring a perfect crispy exterior.
• Maintain oil temperature around 350°F and use a thermometer to achieve golden-brown crust without burning.

Different Fillings for Papas Rellenas

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace beef with black beans, quinoa, or lentils for a protein-packed meat-free version. Add extra spices like cumin and paprika for robust flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for coating. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or turnips. Use ground turkey or chicken for lighter protein option. Bake instead of deep frying for reduced calories.
• Spicy Latin Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or habanero peppers into filling. Add chipotle powder to potato mixture for smoky heat. Serve with spicy salsa or hot sauce on side.

Serving Suggestions for Papas Rellenas Parties

• Fiesta Plate Companion: Pair these crispy Colombian papas rellenas with fresh Colombian curtido salad for bright, tangy contrast.
• Dipping Delight: Whip up a zesty garlic aioli or spicy ají sauce to complement the rich, meaty potato balls and enhance their flavor profile.
• Hearty Meal Upgrade: Serve alongside white rice and simple green salad to create a complete, satisfying dinner that balances the deep-fried appetizer with lighter elements.
• Party Pleaser Presentation: Arrange papas rellenas on a large platter with fresh cilantro garnish and lime wedges for a stunning, colorful display that invites guests to dig in.

Keeping Papas Rellenas Crispy After Cooking

• Store leftover papas rellenas in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.
• Place cooled papas rellenas on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They'll keep well for 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange papas rellenas on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Uncover last 5 minutes to crisp the exterior.

Colombian Papas Rellenas Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy Colombian papas rellenas blend golden potato shells with savory ground beef filling, showcasing traditional Latin American comfort cuisine. Potato lovers will relish this hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor from Colombian kitchens to your table.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 russet potatoes
• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons flour

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sazon seasoning
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Salt to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 bunch scallions or green onions
• 4 campari tomatoes
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Peel potatoes and slice into evenly sized chunks, ensuring uniform cooking. Submerge in generously salted water and boil for approximately 15 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Thoroughly drain potatoes and immediately mash while warm to eliminate excess moisture. Whisk until smooth, incorporating salt for enhanced flavor. Allow mixture to cool completely.
3. Sauté diced tomatoes and scallions in a skillet until they become soft and translucent. Introduce ground beef and selected seasonings, cooking until meat develops a rich, caramelized brown color.
4. Portion potato mixture into 1/2-cup measurements. Gently flatten each portion into a circular disc. Carefully place filling in the center, then meticulously seal edges and shape into a compact, uniform sphere.
5. Prepare coating by whisking cream, flour, eggs, and salt into a smooth batter. Completely enrobe potato balls in the mixture, optionally rolling in breadcrumbs for additional crispness.
6. Heat oil to 350°F for optimal frying. Carefully lower potato balls into hot oil, cooking in small batches for 8-10 minutes until achieving a golden, crispy exterior. Maintain consistent temperature to ensure even browning.

Notes

• Potato Perfection Choose starchy potatoes like Russet for the fluffiest, most moldable texture that holds together beautifully during frying.
• Moisture Management Ensure potatoes are completely dry after mashing to prevent soggy balls that might fall apart in hot oil.
• Filling Flexibility Swap beef for shredded chicken, chorizo, or vegetarian alternatives like black beans and corn for diverse flavor profiles.
• Gluten-Free Hack Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly without compromising crispy exterior.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer, Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Colombian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg