Chuchitos Guatemala, English Version

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber, while cornmeal is often less expensive.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: pork

Turkey is leaner, while pork is typically more affordable.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola oil is often cheaper.

tomato sauce

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: canned tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are healthier, while canned are often less expensive.

Mix masa harina, water, and salt in a bowl until a smooth dough forms.

In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion and garlic to the pan, sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in diced chicken, tomato sauce, cumin, black pepper, and bay leaves; cook until chicken is fully cooked, about 10-15 minutes.

Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Soak banana leaves in hot water until pliable, about 10 minutes.

Cut banana leaves into squares, about 8 inches wide.

Place a spoonful of masa dough on the center of each banana leaf square.

Add a spoonful of chicken filling on top of the masa dough.

Fold the banana leaves over the filling to form a package, securing the ends.

Place the chuchitos in a steamer basket, cover, and steam for about 45-60 minutes until firm.

Remove from the steamer and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: