Peruvian Causa Rellena with a Twist

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Filling of your choice (e.g., shredded chicken, tuna, or sautéed vegetables) Filling of your choice (e.g., shredded chicken, tuna, or sautéed vegetables)
• 1 avocado, sliced 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 10 black olives, pitted 10 black olives, pitted

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 45g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, lime juice, aji amarillo paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the potatoes are evenly seasoned.
2. 2.
   Line a rectangular dish with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang to cover the top later.
3. 3.
   Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly in the dish, creating a smooth layer.
4. 4.
   Add the filling of your choice on top of the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly.
5. 5.
   Layer the remaining mashed potatoes on top of the filling, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. 6.
   Cover the dish with the overhanging plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
7. 7.
   Once set, remove the plastic wrap and carefully invert the dish onto a serving platter.
8. 8.
   Garnish the Causa Rellena with avocado slices, hard-boiled egg slices, and black olives.
9. 9.
   Slice into individual portions and serve chilled.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture.
• Aji Amarillo Paste — Adjust the amount of aji amarillo paste according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier kick or reduce for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the mashed potatoes extra creamy, pass them through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the seasonings.
• Experiment with different fillings such as shrimp, crab, or roasted vegetables to create your own unique version of Causa Rellena.
• For a tangier flavor, add a splash of vinegar to the mashed potatoes.
• Serve the Causa Rellena with a side of Peruvian salsa criolla for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using tofu or tempeh as a filling option.

Serving advice

Serve the Causa Rellena chilled as an appetizer or a light lunch. Accompany it with a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

When serving, garnish the Causa Rellena with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped cilantro for an added pop of color. Arrange the avocado slices, hard-boiled egg slices, and black olives in an attractive pattern on top of the dish to enhance its visual appeal.