Pantrucas: A Traditional Chilean Delight
Description:
Pantrucas is a comforting Chilean dish that brings together a medley of flavors, featuring tender homemade pasta squares served in a hearty meat and vegetable broth. This dish is not only nourishing but also embodies the warmth of Chilean culinary traditions, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Medium onion, diced | 1 |
Garlic, finely chopped | 1 to 2 cloves |
Ground beef | 200 grams |
Carrot, sliced | 1 |
Red bell pepper, sliced | ½ |
Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
Ground cumin | ½ teaspoon |
Paprika or aji color | 1 teaspoon |
Medium potatoes, peeled and diced | 2 |
Beef broth (homemade preferred) | 1 liter |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
All-purpose flour (without baking powder) | ¾ cup |
Egg | 1 |
Warm water | ¼ cup |
Eggs (optional, for serving) | 2 |
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped | To garnish |
Instructions
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and finely chopped garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. -
Cook the Ground Beef:
Stir in the ground beef, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until browned. Next, add the sliced carrot, red bell pepper, and seasonings: oregano, ground cumin, and paprika. Be cautious with the salt, as the beef broth may already contain salt. -
Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in salt and pepper according to your preference, then stir everything together to combine. -
Add Potatoes and Broth:
Incorporate the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Stir well, then cover the pot and let it simmer for about 5 minutes over medium heat. -
Prepare the Pantrucas Dough:
While the broth is cooking, prepare the pantrucas dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, egg, and warm water. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, uniform dough. Depending on the consistency, you may need to add a bit more water. -
Roll and Cut the Dough:
Once the dough is ready, roll it out using a rolling pin. Cut the rolled dough into long strips and then into small squares, similar to what you might see in photos of the dish. -
Cook the Pantrucas:
Carefully add the dough squares to the simmering broth. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes until they are tender and cooked through. -
Add the Eggs (Optional):
If desired, crack one or two whole eggs (unbeaten) directly into the pot. Let them cook for a short time, just until the whites are set. -
Serve the Dish:
Ladle the hot pantrucas into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for an added touch of flavor and freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | Approximately 350 |
Protein | 20 grams |
Carbohydrates | 40 grams |
Dietary Fiber | 5 grams |
Total Fat | 10 grams |
Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
Cholesterol | 70 mg |
Sodium | 500 mg |
This recipe for Pantrucas not only showcases the delightful flavors of Chile but also invites you to experience the joy of preparing a dish that has been cherished across generations. Serve this warm, comforting meal on a chilly day, and enjoy the heartwarming embrace of homemade goodness.