| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 340 | 20g | 7g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 4g | 25g | 1.2g |
The first time I embarked on the culinary journey of creating Caigua Rellena (Stuffed Caigua), a small piece of my heart melded with this dish and I knew it would take up residence in my recipe box. As a culinary enthusiast with Montana roots and a passion for unique flavors, experimenting with this Peruvian cuisine staple was pure joy. The delicate balance of caigua, stuffed with meaty goodness, complemented by raisins’ sweetness, olives’ tartness, and bathed in a burst of flavor from the cumin and paprika, is a trend I have grown to adore.
The Flavors of Caigua Rellena
Though my days of whipping up bison burgers and huckleberry pies aren’t too far behind, I fell for Caigua Rellena instantly. It’s a dish that reminds us that often it’s simple, fresh ingredients that yield the most captivating flavors. The caigua brings a light, almost cucumber-like taste, which beautifully complements the savory ground beef stuffing, packed with onions, garlic, and flavored with vibrant spices. The hard-boiled eggs, raisins, and black olives contribute to the dish’s complexity, offering an array of surprising and delightful bites. The hearty beef broth and melted mozzarella crown this jewel, bringing creamy and intense flavors.
Health Benefits and Pairings
Not only is the Caigua Rellena a flavourful carnival for your palate, but it also boasts numerous health benefits. The caigua itself is a nutritional powerhouse, high in fiber and low in calories. The ground beef contributes to the protein content, making it an excellent option for those pursuing a high-protein diet. Olive oil, known for its heart-healthy fats, is another key ingredient in this recipe. Furthermore, the numerous spices incorporated, particularly cumin and paprika, are renowned for their beneficial antioxidant properties.
When it comes to pairing, I’ve found it stands bold and beautiful on its own or accompanied by staple Peruvian dishes like Quinoa and Avocado Salsa or Peruvian Chicken Fried Rice. Its robust and complex flavor profile harmonizes delightfully with both a refreshing beer or a rich, fruity red wine.
Rest assured, the Caigua Rellena is a dish that will stir your senses, nourish your body, and offer a delicious exploration into Peruvian cuisine. Enjoy the journey as much as I have, and here’s to the next culinary adventure.
What You’ll Need
- 6 Caigua
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 Medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup Raisins, soaked
- 1 cup Black olives, chopped
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, grated
Method
Step One
Start by washing the Caiguas thoroughly. Cut off the tops of the Caiguas and carefully scoop out the seeds inside, ensuring not to damage their shape. Set aside.
Step Two
In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until they are slightly browned and aromatic.
Step Three
Add the ground beef to the pan and continue to sauté. Cook until the beef is fully browned. Season with the ground cumin, paprika, salt and black pepper.
Step Four
Once the meat is fully cooked, add the soaked raisins, chopped olives, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Stir to combine well and remove the mixture from the heat. Let it cool down a bit.
Step Five
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius) and prepare a casserole dish by greasing it lightly with oil.
Step Six
Fill each Caigua with the meat mixture until they are well stuffed. Place them in your prepared casserole dish.
Step Seven
Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed Caiguas with the grated mozzarella cheese and then pour the beef broth into the dish, being careful not to pour it directly on the Caiguas.
Step Eight
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the Caiguas are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Caigua Rellena!
