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FoodieAtlas Recipes around the World

Nacatamales

Nacatamales
Nicaragua
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • For the Filling:
  • 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup green olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • For the Masa:
  • 2 cups masa harina (corn dough flour)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or lard
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Additional Ingredients:
  • 20-25 banana leaves, thawed and cleaned
  • Kitchen twine or string for tying

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the pork pieces and cook until browned on all sides.

Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook for 30-45 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Stir in the sliced olives, raisins (if using), and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Prepare the Masa

In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, vegetable oil (or lard), baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the chicken broth, mixing until the masa forms a smooth dough.

Assemble the Nacatamales

Cut the banana leaves into squares about 12 inches in size. Heat them over an open flame or in a dry skillet to make them pliable.

Place a small amount of masa dough in the center of each banana leaf square.

Add a portion of the pork filling on top of the masa.

Fold the banana leaf around the filling, securing it by folding the sides and tying with kitchen twine.

Cook the Nacatamales

Place the wrapped nacatamales in a large steamer or pot with a steaming rack.

Steam over medium heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the masa is fully cooked and firm.

Serve

Allow the nacatamales to cool slightly before unwrapping.

Enjoy your meal!