Alcapurria

Alcapurria is a popular fritter dish from Puerto Rico.

Origin
It may have influence from Middle Eastern kibbeh due to the immigration of Levantine Arabs as well as Armenians throughout Latin America.

Preparation
The dough surrounding the filling, the masa, is made primarily of green banana and grated yautía with optional addition of squash. Green banana can be replaced with breadfruit, cassava, taro, green or yellow plantains or other arrowroots. Alcapurrias are generally seasoned with lard, annatto, garlic and salt. The annatto gives it signature yellow/orange color. Annatto seeds are simmered in lard to release most of its color and flavor. Seeds are discarded and the tinted lard is then poured over the masa.

The masa is refrigerated for several hours to achieve a solid consistency. Diced potatoes cooked with picadillo or corned beef are the most typical fillings; others include longaniza, blood sausage, braised meat, cheese, seafood and vegetables. They can be deep-fried in lard or oil, or baked (alcapurrias horneadas). When cooked, the fritter is "hot and brittle". Alcapurrias are served at kiosks and at fine restaurants, as well.