Cuban Papas Rellenas (Pan-Fried Stuffed Potatoes)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Cuban Papas Rellenas (Pan-Fried Stuffed Potatoes).

1. Step 1

   Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Step 2

   Add the ground beef, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.

3. Step 3

   Cook this mixture until the beef is beautifully browned and crumbly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your dish light and flavorful.

5. Step 5

   Next, lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the tomato sauce and white wine.

6. Step 6

   Allow this delightful blend to simmer for a few minutes, then stir in the chopped olives.

7. Step 7

   Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and let those flavors meld together.

8. Step 8

   While the meat mixture is simmering, turn your attention to the potatoes.

9. Step 9

   In a large pot, place the quartered potatoes and cover them with salted water.

10. Step 10

    Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes simmer until they’re tender, which should take about 20 minutes.

11. Step 11

    Once they’re ready, drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth.

12. Step 12

    Set the mashed potatoes aside to cool a bit.

13. Step 13

    Now, let’s get a little creative with the eggs.

14. Step 14

    Separate the egg yolks from the whites into two different bowls.

15. Step 15

    Mix the egg yolks into the cooled mashed potatoes, giving it a rich and creamy texture.

16. Step 16

    In the other bowl, whisk the egg whites until they’re frothy, which should take about a minute.

17. Step 17

    It’s time to assemble your potato balls! Take about a quarter cup of the mashed potato mixture and shape it into a ball.

18. Step 18

    Create a little dent in the center to form a bowl shape, and fill it with a tablespoon of the savory meat mixture.

19. Step 19

    Gently reseal the potato ball and reshape it to keep that delicious filling tucked inside.

20. Step 20

    For that perfect crispy coating, dip each potato ball in the frothy egg whites, then roll it in bread crumbs until it’s fully coated.

21. Step 21

    If you’re feeling adventurous, you can dip it in the egg whites again and add another layer of bread crumbs for extra crunch.

22. Step 22

    Once all your potato balls are ready, pop them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to firm up before frying.

23. Step 23

    When you’re ready to fry, heat enough vegetable oil in a skillet to cover half of the potato balls, bringing the temperature to 350°F (175°C).

24. Step 24

    Working in batches, carefully place a few potato balls into the hot oil.

25. Step 25

    Fry them until they’re golden brown on each side, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

26. Step 26

    Remember not to overcrowd the pan; you want each ball to have enough space to crisp up beautifully.

27. Step 27

    Once they’re done, drain the fried potato balls on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

28. Step 28

    And there you have it! A deliciously crispy and flavorful treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

29. Step 29

    Enjoy every bite!.