How to make Honduran Nacatamales

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: turkey

Chicken is leaner, while turkey is often less expensive.

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber, cornmeal is more accessible.

banana leaves

🥗Healthier: aluminum foil

💰Cheaper: parchment paper

Foil and parchment are easier to find for wrapping.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth offers a lower-calorie option.

Prepare banana leaves by softening them in hot water until pliable.

Mix masa harina with chicken broth until a smooth dough forms.

In a separate bowl, combine pork, diced potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, and salt.

Spoon the masa mixture onto a banana leaf, flattening it out.

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

Fold the banana leaf over the filling to create a parcel, securing it tightly.

Repeat the process for remaining masa and filling.

Place the wrapped nacatamales in a steamer basket over boiling water.

Steam for 1.5 to 2 hours until masa is firm and filling is cooked through.

Remove from steamer and let cool slightly before unwrapping.

Serve warm with a side of salsa or pickled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: