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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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