Beef Mofongo

This dish is a Puerto Rican staple of seasoned ground beef, olives and veggies served over mashed plantains.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
• 6 cloves garlic, divided
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed, drained
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup sliced green olives with pimentos
• 1 teaspoon coriander and annatto seasoning mix
• 4 unripe plantains, peeled, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 cup canned French fried onions (optional)

• Lime wedges, chopped cilantro and additional French fried onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine onion, pepper, cilantro and 2 garlic cloves in food processor container. Cover; process until finely chopped.

2. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add Ground Beef and vegetable mixture; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking beef into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Pour off drippings, as necessary. Stir in beans, tomatoes, olives and seasoning mix; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   Cook's Tip:

   One teaspoon ground cumin and 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt may be substituted for seasoning mix.

   
   

   Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef doneness.

3. Meanwhile, place plantains, remaining 4 cloves garlic and salt in large saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 35 to 40 minutes or until plantains are very tender. Remove from heat; drain, reserving cooking liquid. Mash plantains and garlic, adding cooking liquid as needed to create a soft, chunky texture. Just before serving, stir in French fried onions, if desired.

   Cook's Tip: Four cups hot, cooked mashed Yukon gold potatoes may be substituted for plantains.

4. Divide plantain mixture evenly onto four plates; top evenly with beef mixture. Garnish with Toppings, if desired.

• Test Kitchen Tips Use the pan size specified in the recipe. If the pan is too small, the beef will be crowded and browning will be inhibited. If the pan is too large, overcooking may result.