Nicaraguan Pork and Bell Pepper Tamales Recipe

Nicaraguan Tamales with Pork and Bell Peppers

Dive into the vibrant and rich flavors of Nicaraguan cuisine with this delightful Tamales dish. Encased in fresh banana leaves and infused with the warmth of bell peppers and tender pork, this dish embodies the true essence of Nicaraguan traditional fare. Ideal for an evening meal, this dish celebrates the harmony of flavors and textures, offering an unforgettable dining experience. Savory, aromatic, and wrapped with the rustic charm of banana leaves, this Tamales recipe will transport you straight into the heart of Nicaragua.

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert

Prep Time: 45 minutes, Cooking Time: 90 minutes

Ingredients

• 300 grams of pork
• 200 grams of corn masa dough
• 100 grams of white rice, uncooked
• 2 banana leaves, cleaned
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 50 grams of lard
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of oregano
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• 300 ml of water

Method

• In a large skillet, melt the lard over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
• Add the pork, diced bell peppers, and cumin. Cook until the pork is lightly browned.
• Add the diced tomatoes, potato, water, salt, black pepper, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for 20 minutes or until the potato is tender.
• In a separate pot, cook the rice in water with a pinch of salt until just tender, and set aside.
• Lay the banana leaves flat, and spread a layer of corn masa dough in the center of each.
• Add a layer of rice, followed by the pork and vegetable mixture.
• Fold the banana leaves over the filling, forming a parcel, and secure with string if necessary.
• In a large pot with a steamer, place the wrapped tamales. Steam for 1 hour, until the dough is firm and set.
• Remove the tamales from the steamer, and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• Ensure your banana leaves are flexible by briefly warming them in a skillet or steaming for a few minutes.
• For an extra layer of flavor, grill the tamales for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information