Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Guatemala with our traditional recipe for Rellenos de Papa. These savory delights are a cherished part of Guatemalan cuisine, featuring mashed potatoes stuffed with a deliciously seasoned filling, then fried to golden perfection. Bursting with flavors of onions, bell peppers, and spices, each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying snack or a hearty meal, Rellenos de Papa are sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Guatemala. Try our authentic recipe today and experience the true essence of Guatemalan gastronomy!

Ingredients:

For the mashed potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup milk

For the meat filling:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 pound ground beef or pork
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup cooked peas (optional)

For breading and frying:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1- Start by preparing the mashed potatoes. Boil the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and transfer to a mixing bowl.

2- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth. Add butter and milk, then season with salt to taste. Mix well until creamy. Set aside.

3- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

4- Add ground beef or pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

5- Season the meat with ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in chopped cilantro and cooked peas if using. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

6- To assemble the Rellenos de Papa, take a small portion of mashed potatoes in your hand and flatten it into a disc. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center, then wrap the mashed potatoes around the filling to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining mashed potatoes and filling.

7- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.

8- Roll each potato ball in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded potato balls on a plate.

9- In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

10- Carefully place the breaded potato balls in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

11- Once fried, transfer the Rellenos de Papa to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

12- Serve the Rellenos de Papa hot as a delicious appetizer or snack. Enjoy the crispy exterior and flavorful meat and potato filling!

Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade Rellenos de Papa!

Nutritional Values :

Potatoes (4 large):

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Fiber: 11g

benefits : Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. They provide energy, support digestion, and may help regulate blood pressure.

Butter (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 204
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0.2g

benefits : : Butter contains saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. It adds flavor to dishes and helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Milk (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 31
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 1g

benefits : Milk is rich in calcium, protein, and vitamin D. It helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth, supports muscle growth and repair, and provides essential nutrients.

Vegetable Oil (for frying):

• Calories: Varies depending on the amount absorbed during frying. Roughly 120 calories per tablespoon.

benefits : Vegetable oil provides energy and contains unsaturated fats, which are healthier fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels when used in moderation.

Ground Beef or Pork (1/2 pound):

• Calories: 456 (for 80% lean ground beef)
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits : Ground meat is a good source of protein, iron, and various vitamins and minerals. It supports muscle growth, provides essential nutrients, and helps maintain overall health.

Onion (1 small):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

benefits : Onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and B9, and potassium. They have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, support heart health, and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 8
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 0.4g
• Fat: 0g

benefits : Garlic contains compounds like allicin, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It supports immune function, heart health, and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Cumin (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 8
• Carbohydrates: 1.4g
• Fiber: 0.6g
• Protein: 0.4g
• Fat: 0.5g

benefits : Cumin is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It aids digestion, supports weight loss, and may help improve blood sugar control.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6
• Carbohydrates: 1.4g
• Fiber: 0.8g
• Protein: 0.3g
• Fat: 0.3g

benefits : Paprika is a good source of vitamins A, E, and B6, as well as antioxidants like beta-carotene. It supports eye health, boosts immunity, and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Cilantro (1/4 cup chopped):

• Calories: 1
• Carbohydrates: 0.1g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits : Cilantro is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. It supports digestion, detoxification, and may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Peas (1/2 cup cooked, optional):

• Calories: 62
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0.4g

benefits : : Peas are high in fiber, protein, vitamins C and K, and minerals like iron and potassium. They support digestive health, boost immunity, and provide essential nutrients.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands used and variations in ingredient sizes.