Piononos de Carne Puertorriqueños

Ingredients

• 2 Ripe Plantains (large, yellow with black spots; use firm but soft fruit)
• 1 lb Ground Beef (cooked picadillo style with sofrito, olives, capers; can be pork or a mix)
• 2 Eggs (beaten lightly)
• 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (for frying plantains and final fry)
• 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (optional, for topping before final fry or bake)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black Pepper
• 12 Bamboo Toothpicks (to hold rolls together; can use wooden cocktail picks)

Instructions

1. Peel and Slice Plantains

   Trim both ends of each plantain, make a shallow slit lengthwise, and carefully remove the skin without tearing the flesh. Slice each plantain into 1/4‑inch thick rounds.

   Time: PT10M

2. Fry Plantain Slices

   Heat 1/2 cup oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat. Fry the plantain rounds until golden brown on both sides, about 2‑3 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

   Time: PT8M

   Temperature: Medium‑high heat

3. Prepare Egg Mixture

   In a small mixing bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper until just combined.

   Time: PT2M

4. Assemble the Piononos

   Lay a fried plantain slice flat, place about 2‑3 tablespoons of cooked ground beef in the center, roll tightly into a cylinder, and secure with two crossed toothpicks. Repeat for all slices.

   Time: PT10M

5. Add Egg and Cheese

   Place each rolled pionono seam‑side down on a plate, brush or drizzle a little beaten egg over the top, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella (if using).

   Time: PT3M

6. Final Cooking (Fry or Bake)

   Option A – Fry: Return the assembled rolls to the hot skillet, fry over medium heat for 3‑4 minutes per side until the egg sets and cheese melts. Option B – Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F, place rolls on a parchment‑lined sheet, bake 5‑10 minutes until cheese melts.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Medium heat or 350°F if baking

7. Drain and Serve

   Remove the piononos with a slotted spoon, place on paper towels to absorb excess oil, discard toothpicks, and serve hot with white rice or a simple salad.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

15 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

4 g