Have you tried papas rellenas before? They're crispy fried potato with a spiced minced beef stuffing. So tempting if you like crispy food and a great way of using up leftover mashed potato. They're delicious served with salsa criolla, a quick pickled onion side.
Boil the potatoes and leave to cool. This can be done the day before or use leftover potatoes.
Mash the potatoes then pass through a sieve to make sure there are no lumps. Alternatively use a potato ricer.
Add the beaten egg, salt and pepper to the potato. Mix in well by kneading with your fingers.
Prepare the Filling
Put a little oil in a pan and fry the onion, garlic and chilli. When it begins to brown add the minced beef.
When the minced beef is browned, add the cumin and paprika. Cook for about a minute, stirring, then add the stock.
Stir and scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent it from sticking and to deglaze. Let simmer till the stock has evaporated.
Preparing the Papas Rellenos
Form the papas by taking a handful of potato. Flatten it. Put a spoonful of mince into the centre and roll the potato around it so the mince is enclosed in the middle.
Repeat with the rest of the potato mixture. This amount should make about 4.
Prepare 3 bowls. One with the flour seasoned with salt and cayenne. One with egg and the last one with breadcrumbs. Roll the papas in the flour, dip in the egg and finally roll in the breadcrumbs. Add extra breadcrumbs to the bowl if necessary.
Cooking the Papas Rellenos
Fill a large saucepan about 1cm with oil. Heat up until a few breadcrumbs sizzle when dropped in.
Add the papas. Cook for about 2 minutes then turn over and cook for another 2 minutes.
Drain on kitchen paper to soak up excess oil then serve with the Salsa Criolla
How to Make the Salsa Criolla
Combine all the ingredients.
Cover and put in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stir again before serving.
Notes
Nutritional information is approximate and a guideline only.