Nicaraguan Vigorón and Tajadas

pork cracklings

🥗Healthier: grilled chicken

💰Cheaper: fried tofu

Grilled chicken provides lean protein, while fried tofu is a vegetarian option.

yuca

🥗Healthier: sweet potato

💰Cheaper: potatoes

Sweet potato adds nutritional value and flavor, while potatoes are more accessible.

cabbage

🥗Healthier: kale

💰Cheaper: lettuce

Kale offers more nutrients, while lettuce is a lighter substitute.

plantains

🥗Healthier: zucchini

💰Cheaper: bananas

Zucchini can be a lower-calorie option, while bananas are often more affordable.

Make the vigorón: To prepare the yucca, use a sharp knife to cut off the root ends, cut in half crosswise, then carefully peel off the tough brown skin and inner pink layer.

Cut the peeled piece into quarters lengthwise. You can also buy frozen yucca that is already peeled.

Add the cold water to a large pot. Place the yucca in the pot and add 1 teaspoon of salt and the lime juice. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and maintain a gentle boil for 25 minutes, or until the yucca is tender but not falling apart.

Remove the yucca from the pot and set aside until cool enough to touch. Remove the woody vein from the middle of the yucca pieces and set aside for serving.

Bring another large pot of water to boil. Blanch the cabbage for 50-60 seconds, then remove from the pot and pat dry. Do not overcook.

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, remaining teaspoon of salt, and distilled vinegar. Add the blanched cabbage and toss to combine. Set aside for serving.

Make the tajadas: Heat the canola oil in a large skillet until it reaches 325˚F (170˚C).

In small batches, carefully fry the sliced plantains for 45 seconds, flipping halfway, until they are lightly golden and a bright yellow in color. Drain over a wire rack or paper towels and season with salt.

To assemble, place cooked yucca on a cabbage leaf, followed by the tomato, onion, and cabbage salad. Top with pork rinds and serve the tajadas alongside.

Enjoy!

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary