Palta Rellenos

Palta Rellenos Recipe from Bolivia with Shrimp and Avocado

Region / culture: Bolivia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Palta Rellenos is a delicious and unique dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the savory flavors of shrimp and chicken. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Palta Rellenos originated in Peru, where avocados are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of avocados, shrimp, and chicken creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that has become popular in many Latin American countries.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) peeled, cooked shrimp
2 avocados
0.5 banana
2 tsp lemon juice
0.25 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp half and half
salt
black pepper
1 pinch paprika
1 pinch sugar
1.5 cup cooked, diced chicken
6 shredded lettuce leaves

How to prepare

If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely.
Cut the avocados in half and remove the stones.
Using a melon baller, scoop out the flesh from the avocado skins and set aside 4 melon balls.
Dice the remaining avocado flesh.
Slice the banana.
Combine the diced avocado and banana.
Sprinkle the mixture with lemon juice.
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, half and half, salt, sugar, pepper, and paprika.
Fold in the banana mixture, chicken, and lettuce.
Spoon the mixture over the reserved avocado skins.
Top with shrimp and avocado balls.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Thaw shrimp completely before using in the recipe.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

- Serve the Palta Rellenos immediately after preparing to prevent the avocados from browning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Palta Rellenos as a light lunch or dinner with a side salad or rice.

Cooking Techniques

Use a melon baller to scoop out the avocado flesh for a neat presentation.

- Fold the ingredients gently to avoid mashing the avocados.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.

- Substitute the shrimp with crab meat or cooked fish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the Palta Rellenos just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color. - Serve on a bed of lettuce or arugula for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Palta Rellenos with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Palta Rellenos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

25g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, and Potassium

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and eggs (mayonnaise)

Summary

Palta Rellenos is a nutritious dish that is high in healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Palta Rellenos is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a combination of creamy avocados, savory shrimp, and chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Palta Rellenos. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious and innovative recipes, and that day was no exception.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the enticing aroma of ripe avocados and savory spices. Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today, my dear friend," she said, as she pulled out a platter of beautifully plated Palta Rellenos.

I had never heard of this dish before, but as soon as I took my first bite, I knew it was something truly special. The creamy texture of the avocado paired perfectly with the flavorful filling of shrimp, onions, and spices. It was a burst of flavors in every bite, and I couldn't help but ask Maria for the recipe.

With a smile, Maria began to share the story of how she learned to make Palta Rellenos. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her grandmother who was a renowned chef in her village.

Maria's grandmother had a passion for cooking and a deep love for her family. She would spend hours in her kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create the perfect dishes. Palta Rellenos was one of her signature dishes, and she would often make it for special occasions and family gatherings.

As a young girl, Maria would watch her grandmother in awe as she worked her magic in the kitchen. She would help out whenever she could, assisting with chopping vegetables, stirring pots, and tasting the final creations. It was during those moments that Maria learned the art of cooking and developed a deep appreciation for good food.

When Maria's grandmother passed away, she left behind a legacy of delicious recipes, including the coveted Palta Rellenos. Maria made it her mission to carry on her grandmother's culinary traditions and share them with the world.

Over the years, Maria perfected the recipe for Palta Rellenos, adding her own twist and flair to the dish. She would often serve it to friends and family, who would rave about its unique flavors and textures. It became a staple in her household, a dish that brought people together and created lasting memories.

As Maria finished telling me the story, she handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe for Palta Rellenos. I was touched by her generosity and excited to try making it myself. I promised Maria that I would cherish the recipe and pass it down to future generations, just like she had done with her grandmother's legacy.

And so, I took the recipe home and set out to recreate the magic of Palta Rellenos in my own kitchen. As I carefully followed the steps and combined the ingredients, I felt a sense of connection to Maria, her grandmother, and the rich culinary heritage that had been passed down through the generations.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and savored the familiar flavors that reminded me of that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen. It was like a taste of nostalgia, a reminder of the love and passion that went into creating such a delicious dish.

And as I shared the Palta Rellenos with my family and friends, I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that would continue to bring joy and unity for years to come. I was grateful for the recipe, the memories, and the friendships that had enriched my life, all thanks to a simple dish made with love and heritage.