PERU: CAUSA RELLENA

CAUSA RELLENA RECIPE

Causa Rellena is a popular Peruvian dish made with layers of mashed potatoes and various fillings. It’s often served cold, making it perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing appetizer. Here’s a detailed recipe to prepare this delicious dish.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Mashed Potato Base:

• 2 pounds yellow potatoes (Peruvian yellow potatoes, if available)

• 2-3 tablespoons lime juice

• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1-2 teaspoons aji amarillo paste (or to taste)

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

• 1 can (about 12 oz) of tuna, drained (or cooked chicken, shrimp, or avocado for variation)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (red or yellow)

• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

For Garnish:

• Hard-boiled eggs, sliced

• Black olives

• Avocado slices

• Fresh parsley or cilantro

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 20-25 minutes).

• Drain and let them cool slightly. Peel the potatoes and place them in a bowl.

• Mash the potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato ricer for a finer texture.

• Add lime juice, vegetable oil, aji amarillo paste, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and the mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna (or your chosen protein), mayonnaise, diced onion, bell pepper, and chopped hard-boiled egg, if using.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.

3. Assemble the Causa:

• Choose a serving dish or individual molds (like ramekins) for serving.

• Take half of the mashed potato mixture and spread it evenly at the bottom of the dish, pressing it down gently.

• Layer the filling mixture on top of the potato layer.

• Spread the remaining mashed potato mixture over the filling, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

4. Chill:

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to set. This will help the layers hold together when serving.

5. Serve:

• Once chilled, you can slice the causa or unmold it from individual molds.

• Garnish with slices of hard-boiled eggs, black olives, and avocado slices on top.

• Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro for an added touch.

6. Enjoy:

• Serve chilled as an appetizer or light main dish. Causa Rellena pairs well with a side salad or a simple vinaigrette.

Tips:

• Variations: You can customize the filling with ingredients like avocado, crab, or vegetables for a vegetarian option.

• Aji Amarillo Paste: This Peruvian chili paste is key for authentic flavor. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

• Serving: Causa Rellena is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Layered presentations make it a great dish for gatherings.