Dominican Stuffed Pancakes

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Hungarian Hortobágyi palacsinta is transformed into a Dominican delight. The original dish is typically made with a filling of seasoned ground meat and onions, wrapped in thin pancakes and topped with a creamy paprika sauce. In the Dominican version, the filling is enhanced with the addition of peppers for a touch of Caribbean heat. The pancakes are then topped with a tangy tomato sauce, adding a burst of tropical flavor to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Hortobágyi palacsinta, so you can check it out.

• For the pancakes: For the pancakes:
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) 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 garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the tomato sauce: For the tomato sauce:
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, and salt until smooth. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a separate saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. 5.
   Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of the pancake batter into the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the edges start to lift and the bottom is golden brown. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute. Repeat with the remaining batter.
6. 6.
   To assemble the stuffed pancakes, place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each pancake. Roll up the pancake tightly and place it in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining pancakes and filling.
7. 7.
   Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed pancakes in the baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
8. 8.
   Serve the Dominican Stuffed Pancakes hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Bell pepper — Use red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Diced tomatoes — Opt for canned diced tomatoes without added salt or sugar.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the meat mixture.
• You can make the pancakes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in a skillet before assembling the stuffed pancakes.
• Customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Dominican Stuffed Pancakes as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. They can also be enjoyed as a delicious appetizer or party snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed pancakes on a platter and drizzle the tomato sauce over them. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color.