Colombian Style Stuffed Potatoes

Method

1. 1

   Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks, put them in a medium pot and cover with water and ¼ teaspoon of salt.

2. 2

   Bring the potatoes to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and cook until fork tender about 20 minutes.

3. 3

   Drain the potatoes and mash with a fork or masher and set aside.

4. 4

   Filling:

5. 5

   In a large sauce pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat and add the onion, tomato, scallions, garlic, cumin, azafran, pepper and salt. Cook for 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent, add the beef and cook stirring occasionally about 10 – 15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

6. 6

   To make the batter:

7. 7

   In a medium bowl place all the batter ingredients and whisk until smooth and set aside.

8. 8

   To Form the Stuffed Potatoes

9. 9

   Divide the potato mash into 10 equal sized portions, about ⅓ cup each, and form each portion into a ball by rolling between the palms of your hands. Flatten into patties and place 1 ½ tablespoons of the filling in the center of each one. Shape the potato mixture with the filling into balls to enclose the filling completely.

10. 10

    Fill a large heavy pot with vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat to 360° F.

11. 11

    Dip the stuffed potato into the batter and carefully place them in the hot oil and fry for about 4 minutes or until golden, turning over halfway through. Remove the potatoes from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain in a plate with paper towels. Transfer to a serving plate and serve with Ají.

12. 12

    Notes

13. 13

    For a vegetarian version:Use the same ingredients in the meat filling except the beef and add 1 cup frozen carrots and peas