Mini Sweet Potato Corn Cachapas with Mild Panela Shredded Beef and Avocado Cream

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Place the beef flank steak in a pot with 750 ml (3.2 cups) water, half of the white onion, half of the garlic, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and cook covered for 40 minutes, or until the beef is tender and easy to shred.

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   2. Remove the beef from the pot, reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of the cooking broth, and shred the meat finely using two forks.

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   3. Heat 1 tablespoon annatto oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the remaining onion, remaining garlic, and the sweet pepper for 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.

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   4. Add the diced tomato, grated panela, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 3 minutes, then add the shredded beef and the reserved 120 ml (1/2 cup) broth, and cook 10 more minutes until the filling is moist but not watery. Keep warm.

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   5. For the mini cachapa batter, blend the sweet corn kernels, cooked sweet potato, pre-cooked cornmeal, milk, egg, melted butter, grated white cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper until thick and slightly textured.

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   6. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with 1 tablespoon oil. Pour small portions of batter, about 60 ml (1/4 cup) each, forming 3 to 4 inch mini cachapas. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter, using the rest of the oil as needed.

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   7. For the avocado cream, process the avocado flesh with plain yogurt, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and spreadable.

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   8. If desired, keep the cachapas warm by placing them on a tray and holding them in the oven at 200 °F / 95 °C for 5 minutes while you prepare to serve.

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   9. Serve 3 mini cachapas per plate, top each one with the mild panela shredded beef, and finish with spoonfuls of avocado cream. Serve immediately.