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Puerto Rican Pastelón is a delicious layered casserole that combines sweet plantains, seasoned ground meat, and cheese. It is a beloved dish that showcases the rich flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine. Making an authentic pastelón requires attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Follow this guide to create a delicious pastelón in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 ripe plantains
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon adobo seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (queso blanco or mozzarella)
- 2 eggs
- Olive oil for frying
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Peel the ripe plantains and slice them lengthwise into thin strips. Heat some olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until they are golden brown on both sides. Drain excess oil on paper towels and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling
In a skillet, heat a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground meat, adobo seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastelón
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the fried plantains on the bottom. Spread the cooked meat evenly over the plantains. Add a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining plantains and cheese on top.
Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture and Bake
In a small bowl, beat the eggs and pour evenly over the assembled casserole. This helps bind the layers together. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Tips
Let the pastelón rest for a few minutes before serving. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some Puerto Rican rice and beans. Enjoy a taste of Puerto Rico in your own home with this authentic dish!