Puerto Rican Alcapurrias

Tap an ingredient or step to check it off.

1. 1Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. 2Step 2: Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. 3Step 3: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Use a spoon to break it up into small pieces.
4. 4Step 4: Stir in the tomato sauce, olives, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
5. 5Step 5: Add water if needed to maintain moisture in the mixture. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set aside to cool.
6. 6Step 6: Process the peeled yuca in a food processor. Strain. In a large bowl, combine the grated yuca, salt, garlic powder, pepper, and annato/achiote oil.
7. 7Step 7: The consistency should be similar to a thick dough. Add more water if the mixture feels too dry, but don’t make it too sticky.
8. 8Step 8: Wet your hands with a little water to prevent the masa from sticking to them.
9. 9Step 9: Take a small ball of the yuca masa (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it into a thick oval or disc shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
10. 10Step 10: Place a spoonful of the picadillo filling in the center of the masa.
11. 11Step 11: Add a few cubes of Gouda cheese on top of the picadillo filling.
12. 12Step 12: Carefully fold the masa around the filling, sealing the edges to form a long, oval-shaped bundle. Press gently to compact the masa and make sure it holds together.
13. 13Step 13: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be enough to submerge the alcapurrias.
14. 14Step 14: Carefully drop the stuffed alcapurrias into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
15. 15Step 15: Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
16. 16Step 16: Use a slotted spoon to remove the alcapurrias from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
17. 17Step 17: Serve the alcapurrias hot, as a savory appetizer or side dish. They are delicious on their own or paired with a dipping sauce, such as garlic mayo or a spicy hot sauce.