Ingredients

1 onion , cut into chunks
1 green bell pepper , cut into chunks
1 bunch fresh parsley
1 bunch fresh cilantro
1 bunch recao , or culantro
3 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon water , or as needed
1 pound ground beef
1 package sazon seasoning
ground black pepper to taste
1 pinch adobo seasoning , or to taste
olive oil
8 ripe plantains , peeled and cut on the bias
4 eggs , beaten
2 cans green beans , drained
4 eggs , beaten
Puerto Rican Shepherd Pie, also known as Pastelon, is a delicious and hearty dish that is popular throughout Puerto Rico. This dish is a twist on the classic Shepherd's Pie, and is made with ripe plantains instead of mashed potatoes. The plantains give the dish a slightly sweet and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy beef mixture. Traditionally, Pastelon is served as a main course for lunch or dinner, and is often enjoyed with a side of rice and beans. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, as it can easily be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C)
2.Blend onion, green bell pepper, parsley, cilantro, recao, and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped. Add enough water to make a paste.
3.Place ground beef in a large bowl. Mix in sazon seasoning, black pepper, and adobo seasoning. Add the vegetable paste and mix until well combined.
4.Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add enough olive oil to lightly coat the pan. Cook plantains in batches until browned, 2 to 3 minutes per side.
5.Beat eggs in a small bowl.
6.Line the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish with green beans. Layer 1/2 of the plantains over the beans and pour 1/2 of the beaten eggs over the plantains. Add the beef mixture and spread evenly over the plantains. Layer the remaining plantains over the beef. Pour the remaining eggs over the top.
7.Bake in the preheated oven until eggs are set and top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.

PROS

This dish is bursting with flavor and is a great way to use up ripe plantains.
It’s also hearty and filling, making it a great choice for a meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.

CONS

This dish is high in calories and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
It’s also not a great option for those who don’t enjoy spicy foods, as the sazon seasoning adds a bit of heat.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish contains a variety of vegetables and lean protein, making it a healthy option when consumed in moderation. Ripe plantains are a great source of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, and are also high in fiber. However, it’s important to note that this dish is high in calories and fat, so it should be eaten in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

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