Causa Rellena(Peruvian Layered Potato Dish)

Jun 08, 2023June 8, 20230 2

Peruvian Causa Rellena: A Flavorful and Colorful Layered Potato Dish

Causa Rellena(Peruvian Layered Potato Dish)

by The Chefin Main

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	2 lbs yellow potatoes ( Yukon gold )
	1/2 cup oil
	1/4 cup lime juice ( or lemon juice )
	2 -3 tablespoons aji amarillo chili paste ( optional )
	salt and pepper
	2 cups tuna salad ( or chicken or vegetarian -see variations below )
	2 -3 hard-boiled eggs , sliced into rounds
	6 -8 pitted black olives

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

6-8

Calories

348

Sugar

Fat

24g

Causa Rellena is a traditional Peruvian dish that originated in the coastal regions of the country. It is named after the Quechua word 'kawsay,' which means 'life' or 'sustenance,' and is an important and flavorful dish in Peruvian cuisine. The dish consists of layers of flavorful mashed potatoes that are filled with various ingredients, such as tuna salad, chicken, or vegetarian fillings, and then chilled before serving. The dish is often garnished with colorful ingredients, such as sliced avocados or cherry tomatoes, to make it an attractive centerpiece for a special occasion or celebration.

Instructions

1.	Rinse and peel the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2.	Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
3.	Add the oil, lime juice, aji amarillo chili paste (if using), salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes, and mix well until smooth and creamy.
4.	Divide the mashed potatoes into two equal portions, and place one portion on a flat serving dish or platter.
5.	Spread the tuna salad (or filling of choice) over the mashed potatoes, and top with sliced hard-boiled eggs and black olives.
6.	Cover the filling with the remaining mashed potatoes, and smooth out the surface with a spatula.
7.	Chill the dish for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8.	Slice the Causa Rellena into portions with a sharp knife, and serve cold with a side of salad or vegetables.

PROS

Causa Rellena is a versatile and colorful dish that can be customized with various fillings, such as chicken or vegetarian options.

The dish is also naturally gluten-free, and can be made ahead of time for easy meal planning and entertaining.

CONS

The dish requires some prep time, as well as time for chilling before serving.

The aji amarillo chili paste, while delicious, may not be readily available in all supermarkets and may need to be substituted with other chili paste options.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Potatoes are a nutrient-dense food that provides important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Tuna is a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to various health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
Eggs are also an excellent source of protein and vitamins, such as vitamin D and B12.