Caldo de Bolas de Verde Relleno de Queso
A hearty and flavorful soup featuring tender green plantain dumplings (bolas) filled with melted cheese, simmered in a rich broth with vegetables and herbs. This dish is a comforting and satisfying representation of Ecuadorian coastal cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 large Green plantains
- 1 cup Queso fresco(crumbled)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for mashing)
- 1 tsp Salt(plus more to taste)
- 8 cups Chicken broth
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Milk(optional, for a creamier broth)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel the green plantains, cut them into chunks, and boil in salted water until very tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain well.
- 2
Mash the cooked plantains with vegetable oil and salt until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or milk at a time.
- 3
Divide the plantain dough into 6 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand, place about 2 tablespoons of crumbled queso fresco in the center, and carefully form the dough around the cheese to create a ball (bola). Ensure the cheese is completely enclosed.
- 4
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 5
Add the diced tomatoes and cumin to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down.
- 6
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the chopped cilantro.
- 7
Carefully add the cheese-filled plantain balls (bolas) to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the bolas are cooked through and float to the surface.
- 8
If desired, stir in milk for a creamier broth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- 9
Ladle the soup and bolas into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the cheese is completely sealed within the plantain balls to prevent it from leaking into the broth.
- ✓If the plantain dough is too sticky, lightly oil your hands.
- ✓For a richer broth, you can add a piece of chicken or a bone to simmer with the vegetables.
🔄 Variations
- Add shredded chicken or small pieces of pork to the broth for a more substantial soup.
- Include other vegetables like carrots or peas in the broth.
- For a spicy kick, add a finely chopped chili pepper with the onions and garlic.