Bolivian Papas Rellenas with Spicy Herb Salsa Recipe

Bolivian Comfort: Papas Rellenas with Spicy Herb Salsa

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of South America with this expert-level dish of Papas Rellenas, a celebrated Bolivian delicacy. This dish melds tender potatoes with a savory, aromatic filling of ground beef, herbs, and spices, all enveloped with a golden, crispy crust. The spicy herb salsa, a vibrant accompaniment, features a medley of herbs with the gentle heat of spices, offering a fusion of flavors to delight your palate and transport you to the vibrant streets of La Paz. This dish showcases the heart and soul of Bolivian cuisine on a platter, perfect for a special dinner for two.

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert

Preparation Time: 30 minutes, Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 400 grams potatoes
• 200 grams ground beef
• 50 grams peas
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 50 grams all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 50 grams butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Method

• Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper. Let them cool.
• In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, oregano, and peas. Cook until the beef is browned.
• In a bowl, mix the cooked beef with beaten eggs and flour to form a filling. Allow to cool.
• Divide mashed potatoes and flatten in the palm of your hand. Place a tablespoon of the beef filling in the center and fold to form a ball. Ensure the filling is completely covered with potatoes.
• Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the potato balls until golden brown on all sides.
• For the salsa, mix parsley, vinegar, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Serve the Papas Rellenas hot, with the spicy herb salsa on the side.

Tips

• For an extra crispy crust, roll the potato balls in flour before frying.
• Allow the potato balls to cool slightly before frying to prevent them from breaking apart.

Nutritional Information