Baho Recipe – Nicaragua's Hearty Stew

Name: Baho
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Nicaragua
Ingredients: bay leaf; black pepper; brisket cut into chunks; cilantro for garnish; cumin; cut into chunks; dried oregano; garlic cloves; lime juice; onion; orange juice; paprika; pound g plantains; pound g pork belly cut into chunks; pound g yuca cassava; pounds g beef chuck; red bell pepper; salt; tomatoes; vegetable oil

Baho is a beloved traditional stew from Nicaragua, featuring a hearty combination of beef, pork, plantains, and yuca. Often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings, this dish showcases the rich flavors of Nicaraguan cuisine and is a comforting meal that warms the heart.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) beef chuck or brisket, cut into large chunks
1 pound (450 g) pork belly, cut into large chunks
1 pound (450 g) plantains, peeled and sliced
1/2 pound (225 g) yuca (cassava), peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice
1/2 cup (120 ml) lime juice
1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Meat

In a large bowl, combine the beef and pork with orange juice, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Base

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Cook the Meat

Add the marinated beef and pork to the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the chopped red bell pepper, tomatoes, cumin, paprika, oregano, and bay leaf.

Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.

Add Vegetables

Pour in enough water to just cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.

Add Plantains and Yuca

Add the plantains and yuca to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Finish

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve

Serve hot, with rice or tortillas on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baho?

Baho is a traditional Nicaraguan stew made with marinated beef and pork, accompanied by plantains and yuca.

Where does Baho come from?

Baho originates from Nicaragua, particularly associated with the country's rural and festive traditions.

What are the main ingredients in Baho?

The key ingredients include beef chuck, pork belly, plantains, yuca, orange juice, lime juice, and onion.

How long does Baho take to make?

Baho takes approximately 150-1560 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Baho?

Baho is often served with rice or tortillas, and a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.

Baho