How to make Nicaraguan Nacatamales, Recipe.

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber while cornmeal is often more affordable.

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: turkey

Chicken is leaner and turkey can be less expensive.

banana leaves

🥗Healthier: parchment paper

💰Cheaper: aluminum foil

Parchment paper is a healthier option while foil is more accessible.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and can be made at home.

Prepare hoja de plátano (plantain leaves) for wrapping.

Mix 4.5 pounds of masa harina with water until smooth, ensuring it’s not too runny.

Cook the masa with vegetable oil or margarine and add vinegar for flavor.

Season the pork with achiote, garlic, and other spices.

Boil potatoes until tender and slice them for the filling.

Lay out hoja de plátano and place a portion of masa in the center.

Add a scoop of seasoned pork, sliced potatoes, and any additional vegetables like carrots and green bell pepper on top of the masa.

Wrap the hoja de plátano around the filling and tie it securely with a caulla or wood thread.

Steam the wrapped nacatamales for at least 2 hours until cooked through.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary