Potatoes were new to Europe in the 16th century and people believed they contained SEXUAL POWERS. They were a rare DELICACY when first planted from the Americas.
I made these with grilled shrimp marinated in achiote and honey. Sautéed the remainder of the plantain IN butter, and sliced some red onion with lime, splash of soy sauce and cilantro. Sprinkled some Cotijo cheese on top and it was MOUTH WATERING!
You can also serve them with a sunny side UP egg and avocado. They are very versatile for any meal of the day!
Ecuadorian Potato Patties (Llapingachos)
• 3-5 pounds Russet or white potatoes
• 4 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 large finely chopped white onion
• 2 teaspoons ground achiote
• 1 cup grated Cotijo and mozzarella cheeses
• 4 ripe yellow plantains
Boil the potatoes until SOFT, drain water add one plantain and mash.
Heat oil over medium heat, add the onions and achiote, cook until SOFT and mix into mashed potatoes. Let sit for about 30 minutes. SPOON about a palm size of potato mixture INTO your HAND, press down in middle and fill with the 2 cheeses. Cover the cheese by rounding the mixture into a ball then flatten slightly into a THICK pancake. Do this until all the mashed potatoes and cheeses are complete.
Cook the pancakes IN a HOT pan with the oil and TURN DELICATELY just once over to brown on each side.
#llapingachos #potatopancakes #achiote #potatoes #ecuador #shrimp #camarones
