Dominican Yautia and Stewed Chicken Pastelón with Spinach, Corn, and Mild Cheese

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Preheat the oven to 375°F / 190°C. Lightly grease a baking dish about 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inches) with a little of the vegetable oil and sprinkle in the breadcrumbs to coat the bottom and sides.

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   2. Place the yautia in a pot with enough water to cover it and add 1 teaspoon of the salt. Cook over medium-high heat for 20 to 25 minutes, until very tender. Drain well.

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   3. While the yautia cooks, heat the remaining vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion, sweet peppers, and garlic, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.

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   4. Add the chicken, dried oregano, ground cumin, black pepper, and the remaining salt. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring, until the chicken loses its pink color.

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   5. Stir in the tomato paste well. Pour in 240 ml (1 cup) of the chicken broth or water and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and juicy and the sauce reduces slightly.

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   6. Add the sweet corn, fresh spinach, and cilantro to the stewed chicken. Cook 2 to 3 minutes more, until the spinach wilts and the corn is heated through. Remove from the heat.

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   7. Mash the hot yautia with the butter and evaporated milk until smooth. Add the beaten eggs and mix quickly to combine. If needed, add the remaining 120 ml (1/2 cup) chicken broth or water little by little until the mixture is creamy but still holds shape.

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   8. Spread half of the yautia mash in the prepared baking dish. Layer all of the stewed chicken with spinach and corn on top. Cover with half of the shredded cheese.

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   9. Add the remaining yautia mash on top and smooth the surface. Finish with the remaining cheese.

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    10. Bake at 375°F / 190°C for 25 to 30 minutes, until the pastelón is piping hot and the cheese is golden in spots. For deeper color, broil for 2 to 3 additional minutes, watching closely.

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    11. Let the pastelón rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving so it holds its shape better.