Causa Rellena de Atun

Causa rellena de atún is a beloved Peruvian dish that showcases layers of mashed yellow potatoes and tuna filling. The name "causa" comes from the Quechua word for sustenance or food ("kausay"). It is a cold, layered dish typically served as an appetizer or light meal. To prepare, yellow potatoes (specifically Peruvian yellow potatoes, known for their unique texture and color) are boiled, mashed, and seasoned with lime juice, aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper), salt, and oil. This creates a soft, flavorful potato base. The mashed potatoes are layered with a filling, which in this case is a mixture of tuna (usually canned tuna in oil or water), mayonnaise, and onions, avocado slices, and hard-boiled eggs. The layers are assembled like a cake or stack. The dish is a refreshing, tangy, and creamy combination of flavors, perfect for warm weather or festive occasions. There are many variations of causa rellena, with different fillings like chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.