Nacatamal
NicaraguanDinner

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Nacatamal is the crown jewel of Nicaraguan cuisine, a beloved dish traditionally prepared for Sunday breakfasts and special celebrations. These substantial tamales are much larger than their Mexican counterparts and feature a complex filling of marinated pork, seasoned rice, potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, all wrapped in plantain or banana leaves and steamed to perfection. The preparation is a labor of love that brings families together, with each generation passing down their unique techniques and flavor combinations. The masa is enriched with sour orange juice and achiote, giving it a distinctive tangy flavor and golden color. When unwrapped, the banana leaf imparts a subtle earthy aroma that complements the rich, savory filling. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that represent the heart of Nicaraguan culinary tradition.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Prepare the masa by mixing masa harina with warm water, melted butter, and salt until smooth. Add sour orange juice (or substitute with lime juice) and mix thoroughly. Set aside to rest for 30 minutes.

  2. Season the pork pieces with salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and minced garlic. Let marinate for 20 minutes.

  3. In a large bowl, combine partially cooked rice with diced potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

  4. Prepare banana leaves by briefly passing them over an open flame to make them pliable, then cut into 12-inch squares.

  5. To assemble each nacatamal, place a banana leaf square shiny side down. Spread a generous portion of masa in the center, creating a rectangle about 6x8 inches.

  6. Layer the filling: place 2-3 pieces of marinated pork in the center, add a spoonful of the rice-vegetable mixture, top with a few olives, raisins, and a sprig of cilantro.

  7. Fold the banana leaf over the filling, first the sides, then the top and bottom, creating a secure rectangular package. Tie with kitchen twine.

  8. In a large stockpot, arrange nacatamales standing upright. Add water to reach halfway up the packages. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

  9. Cover and steam for 2.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure water level remains adequate. Add more hot water if needed.

  10. Remove from pot and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Unwrap carefully and serve hot with the banana leaf as a plate.

Nacatamal

4.5 (30)

Traditional Nicaraguan tamales wrapped in banana leaves, filled with seasoned pork, rice, vegetables, and spices, creating a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for family gatherings.

medium
3h 15m
8 servings

Ingredients

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Main Filling

  • 800 grams pork-chops, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cups rice-white, partially cooked
  • 2 pieces potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 pieces bell-peppers, diced
  • 1 pieces onions, finely diced
  • 3 pieces tomatoes, diced

Masa

  • 4 cups flour, masa harina
  • 8 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 pieces lime, juiced

Seasoning

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons cumin, ground
  • 1 teaspoons oregano, dried
  • 3 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoons black-pepper, ground

Garnish

  • 4 tablespoons cilantro, fresh sprigs (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For authentic flavor, seek out sour orange juice at Latin markets, or substitute with a mixture of orange and lime juice.
The masa should be spreadable but not too wet.
If it is too dry, add warm water a tablespoon at a time.
Banana leaves can be found frozen at Asian or Latin markets.
The traditional Nicaraguan version is larger and more substantial than Mexican tamales, so do not skimp on the filling.
You can customize the meat by using chicken or a combination of pork and chicken.
Some families add a small piece of bacon for extra richness.
The raisins and olives provide a sweet-savory contrast that is characteristic of Nicaraguan cuisine.
Make extra nacatamales and freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months, or cooked for up to 2 months.
They make excellent make-ahead meals.