Llapingachos Potato Cakes Filled with Cheese

Golden, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying, Llapingachos Potato Cakes Filled with Cheese are a delightful Ecuadorian specialty that's perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer. Made with creamy mashed russet potatoes infused with the vibrant color and flavor of annatto, each potato cake is stuffed with ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese, then pan-fried to golden perfection. The combination of crispy exterior and melty cheese center makes these potato patties a comforting treat for any occasion. Served warm, they pair beautifully with peanut sauce, fresh salad, or your favorite condiments. Easy to prepare and packed with authentic flavor, these savory potato cakes bring a taste of South America straight to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 medium Russet potatoes
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Annatto powder (achiote)
• 1.5 cups Mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 2

Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

Step 3

Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly. Mash the potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.

Step 4

In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the annatto powder. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavor, then add the mixture to the mashed potatoes along with the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5

Divide the mashed potato mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disk about 3 inches wide.

Step 6

Place about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each potato disk, then fold the edges over the cheese to enclose it. Shape into a round patty, ensuring the cheese is fully sealed inside. Repeat with the remaining portions.

Step 7

Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, cook the potato cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil to the skillet as needed between batches.

Step 8

Serve warm as a side dish or snack, accompanied by a side of peanut sauce, salad, or your favorite condiments.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1277.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1943.6

Total Fat 84.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 37.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 18.1g
Cholesterol 172.2mg	0%
Sodium 6053.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 236.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18g	0%
Total Sugars 15.1g
Protein 70.5g	0%

Vitamin D 27.1IU	0%
Calcium 1337.9mg	0%
Iron 12.4mg	0%
Potassium 6016.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.3%

Protein: 14.2%

Carbs: 47.6%