Pastel de Papas

Authentic Pastel de Papas Recipe from Argentina | Ingredients: Potatoes, Eggs, Cheese, Ground Beef, and More

Region / culture: Argentina | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pastel de Papas, also known as Argentinean Shepherd's Pie, is a delicious and comforting dish that consists of layers of mashed potatoes and a savory meat filling. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Pastel de Papas has its origins in Argentina, where it is a popular dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is believed to have been brought to Argentina by European immigrants, who adapted it to suit the local ingredients and flavors. Over the years, Pastel de Papas has become a staple in Argentinean cuisine and is often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

4 cups of mashed potatoes (add butter and salt to taste)
2 eggs
0.5 tsp of chopped parsley
2 or 4 tbsp of grated cheese
1 onion, diced
2 tomatoes, diced
1 tbsp of tomato sauce
1 minced clove of fresh garlic (may replace with powder)
0.5 cup of oil
2 cups of ground beef
spices to taste

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a pan.
Fry the onions and garlic in the pan.
Stir in the tomatoes and tomato sauce when the onions turn light brown.
When the tomatoes are cooked, stir in the ground beef.
Continue stirring to blend all the ingredients well.
Add the cheese and parsley to the mixture.
Cook until the beef is browned.
Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.
Grease a baking dish with oil and spread the potatoes on the bottom.
Spread the ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
Cover the ground beef with the remaining mashed potatoes.
Bake in the oven until the top is lightly browned.

Variations

Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
Add diced bell peppers, corn, or peas to the meat filling for extra flavor and texture.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the meat filling well with spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- For a creamier mashed potato topping, add a splash of milk or cream while mashing the potatoes.

- To achieve a crispy top, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.

- Let the Pastel de Papas rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pastel de Papas with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender before mashing them for a smoother texture.

- Cook the meat filling until it is browned and the flavors are well-developed.

- Bake the Pastel de Papas in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

- Replace the cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

- Omit the eggs for a vegan-friendly version of Pastel de Papas.

Make Ahead Tips

Pastel de Papas can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the Pastel de Papas with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or paprika for a pop of color. Serve the dish in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pastel de Papas pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Pastel de Papas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pastel de Papas contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pastel de Papas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pastel de Papas contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pastel de Papas contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pastel de Papas is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Pastel de Papas contains dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Pastel de Papas is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Pastel de Papas is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes and a savory meat filling, this Argentinean Shepherd's Pie is sure to be a hit with your loved ones. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves falling gently to the ground as I rummaged through an old box of recipes that my mother had left me. I had always loved to cook, and finding new recipes to try out was like uncovering buried treasure.

As I sifted through the faded pieces of paper and worn index cards, my eyes fell upon a yellowed piece of parchment with the title "Pastel de Papas" scrawled across the top in elegant cursive. Intrigued, I carefully unfolded the paper and began to read the instructions.

The recipe called for simple ingredients - potatoes, ground beef, onions, and a handful of spices. It seemed like a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for the cool weather that was settling in. I could almost picture the golden crust of mashed potatoes, bubbling with a savory meat filling underneath.

I couldn't wait to try it out, so I set to work gathering the ingredients and following the steps outlined in the recipe. As I peeled and diced the potatoes, my mind wandered back to my childhood, when my own grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching me the art of cooking.

I remembered how she would patiently show me how to mix and knead dough, how to sauté vegetables just right, and how to season dishes with a delicate hand. She had a knack for turning simple ingredients into delicious meals, and I had always admired her skill and creativity in the kitchen.

As I browned the ground beef and onions, the fragrant aromas wafting through the kitchen brought back memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts. My grandmother's recipes had always been a source of comfort and joy for me, connecting me to my roots and bringing me closer to my loved ones.

When the Pastel de Papas was finally assembled and popped into the oven to bake, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation and excitement. The familiar scents of garlic and spices filled the air, mingling with the rich aroma of simmering meat and potatoes.

As I waited for the dish to finish cooking, I thought about all the people who had influenced my love for cooking over the years - my mother, my grandmother, and even the friends and neighbors who had shared their own recipes with me. Each dish was a story, a memory, a connection to the past that I cherished and held dear.

When the timer finally dinged, I gingerly pulled the bubbling casserole dish out of the oven, the golden crust glistening in the dim light of the kitchen. I couldn't wait to take a bite, to taste the fruits of my labor and to savor the flavors that had been passed down through generations.

As I sat down at the table and took my first bite of the Pastel de Papas, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The creamy mashed potatoes melted in my mouth, the savory filling bursting with flavor and warmth. It was like taking a trip back in time, to a simpler era when food was made with love and care, and shared with those who mattered most.

And as I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection, a reminder of the love and tradition that had shaped me into the cook I was today. My grandmother's spirit lived on in every dish I created, every recipe I tried, and every meal I shared with my own family.

And so, as I finished my meal and cleared the table, I tucked the recipe for Pastel de Papas back into its rightful place in the old box, knowing that it would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a recipe - it was a story, a connection, a legacy that would live on for generations to come. And for that, I was truly grateful.