Panamanian-style Stecchi with Plantain Mash

Ingredients

In the Panamanian adaptation of Stecchi, the traditional Italian meat skewers are coated in a plantain crust instead of breadcrumbs. Additionally, the dish is served with a creamy plantain mash, which replaces the typical Italian accompaniments. These modifications infuse the dish with the tropical flavors and textures that are characteristic of Panamanian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Stecchi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef tenderloin, cut into thin strips 500g (1.1 lb) beef tenderloin, cut into thin strips
• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and mashed 2 ripe plantains, peeled and mashed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g) 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 15g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Dip each beef strip into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the seasoned flour mixture.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Fry the coated beef strips until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, add the mashed plantains and cook over medium heat until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. 6.
   Season the plantain mash with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the crispy beef strips on a bed of plantain mash.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin and black spots for the best flavor and sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of chili powder to the seasoned flour mixture.
• If you prefer a smoother plantain mash, blend the mashed plantains in a food processor or blender.
• Experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or pork, for variety.

Serving advice

Serve the Panamanian-style Stecchi with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the flavors and add a refreshing element to the dish.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy beef strips on top of the creamy plantain mash, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.