Llapingachos Ecuatorianos (Ecuadorean Potato-and-Cheese Patties)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 medium peeled baking potatoes, quartered (about 1 1/4 pounds)
• 6 tablespoons (1 1/2 ounces) shredded queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup diced tomato
• 1/2 cup julienne-cut red onion

Preparation

1. Place 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and potatoes in a saucepan, and cover with water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until tender. Drain, and mash with a potato masher until smooth. Cool.
2. Add cheese, green onions, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper to potato mixture, stirring well. Divide potato mixture into 6 balls (about 1/2 cup per ball). Flatten balls into 1/2-inch-thick patties (about 3-inch diameter). Place on a baking sheet; cover and refrigerate 20 minutes or until firm.
3. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place potato-and-cheese patties in pan; cook 5 minutes or until bottoms are browned. Turn patties; cook 3 minutes. Top patties with tomato and red onion.