Guatemalan-style Papas Rellenas

Ingredients

While the original Indian Aluchya Wadya is a vegetarian dish made with potatoes and spices, the Guatemalan adaptation, Papas Rellenas, incorporates ground meat and additional seasonings. The Indian influence can still be seen in the use of potatoes as the main ingredient, but the flavors and cooking techniques have been adapted to suit the Guatemalan palate. We alse have the original recipe for Aluchya Wadya, so you can check it out.

• 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 250g (8.8 oz) ground beef 250g (8.8 oz) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• Breadcrumbs for coating Breadcrumbs for coating
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the onions, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
2. 2.
   Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Season with cumin powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool.
4. 4.
   Take a portion of mashed potatoes and flatten it in your palm.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the ground beef mixture in the center of the flattened potato and shape it into a ball.
6. 6.
   Dip the potato ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
7. 7.
   Roll the coated potato ball in breadcrumbs until evenly covered.
8. 8.
   Repeat the process with the remaining mashed potatoes and filling.
9. 9.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer.
10. 10.
    Carefully place the coated potato balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove the Papas Rellenas from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
12. 12.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender for easy mashing.
• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation.
• Breadcrumbs — If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra kick of flavor, you can include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with seasoned mashed black beans or a mixture of sautéed vegetables.
• Serve Papas Rellenas with a side of salsa or guacamole for a refreshing twist.
• If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the Papas Rellenas in the oven instead of deep-frying them.
• Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, olives, or raisins to create your own unique variation.

Serving advice

Papas Rellenas are best served hot as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a tangy tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Papas Rellenas on a platter, showcasing their golden-brown exterior. Sprinkle some paprika or cumin powder on top for a pop of color. Serve with small dipping bowls of salsa or guacamole for an inviting presentation.