Minced Beef and Plantain Bolinho de Carne
This delightful dish is inspired by the traditional Brazilian bolinho, known for its crispy exterior and flavorful, moist interior. Marrying minced beef with the subtle sweetness of ripe plantains, it's a fusion of flavors that elevates the humble croquette into a sophisticated appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
1 cup ground beef (minced beef) - Preferably grass-fed for a richer flavor- 1 unit plantain - ripe, peeled and cubed
½ cup breadcrumbs - Use panko for extra crunch
2 cloves garlic - finely minced
1 unit egg - beaten
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin - ground
¼ cup all purpose flour (plain flour Australia and UK)
1 liter vegetable oil - for frying
Instructions
- Boil the cubed plantain in salted water until soft, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and mash with a fork until smooth.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the minced beef and cook until browned, seasoning with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed plantain, cooked beef mixture, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat (180°C/356°F). Fry the bolinhos in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture. These bolinhos can be made ahead and refrigerated; just fry them when ready to serve.
Nutrition
Calories: 2222kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 14gFat: 237gSaturated Fat: 38gPolyunsaturated Fat: 133gMonounsaturated Fat: 55gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 137mgPotassium: 239mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 254IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 39mgIron: 3mg
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