Beef & Cheese Stuffed Plantain Balls

Ingredients

• 13 ripe plantains(900g)
• 2250 g ground beef(250g)
• 30.5 onion(60g)
• 42 garlic cloves(8g)
• 50.5 bell pepper(60g)
• 61 tablespoon tomato paste(16g)
• 71 teaspoon spices (cumin, paprika, black pepper)(2g)
• 82 tablespoon cornmeal(16g)
• 91 teaspoon salt(6g)
• 10100 g cheese (mozzarella or cheddar, shredded)(100g)
• 110.5 cup all-purpose flour(60g)
• 122 egg(100g)
• 131 cup panko breadcrumbs(50g)
• 14500 ml oil for frying(460g)

Instructions

1. 1Peel and cut the ripe plantains into chunks.
2. 2Boil the plantains in water until soft and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. 3While the plantains cook, heat a pan over medium heat and add the ground beef.
4. 4Cook the beef until browned, then add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper.
5. 5Sauté until vegetables are soft, then stir in tomato paste and spices. Cook for 2-3 more minutes. Set aside.
6. 6Drain the plantains and mash them in a bowl. Add cornmeal and salt, mixing until smooth.
7. 7Take a small scoop of mashed plantain, flatten it in your hand, and place a spoonful of beef filling and some shredded cheese in the center.
8. 8Close the plantain around the filling and shape into a ball.
9. 9Coat each ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, then roll in panko breadcrumbs.
10. 10Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry the balls in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
11. 11Drain on paper towels and serve hot.