The choclo envuelto (Colombian corn) recipe is a typical platillo from the Andean region of Colombia. usually it is made without vegetables or meats on occasions just cheese, but in this recipe we will do something different, it will be stuffed with a mixture of pork and vegetables wrapped in cornmeal and steamed in corn leaves. in Mexico it is called tamal, in Peru it is called humita, in Venezuela hallaca and in Ecuador bolon de verde, it can also be made with banana leaf.
Wrapped in choclo
The Colombian choclo wrap is a traditional platter consisting of a dough of choclo (tender corn) stuffed with meat, pork, chicken or vegetables and steamed in banana leaves. It is a delicious gastronomic option typical of the Andean region of Colombia.
10
Wrapped59
minute45
minute300
kcalIngredients:
2 Cups Peeled corn
1/2 Cup water
1 Tablespoon salt
1/2 Cup Vegetable oil
1 Pound Pork, cut into chunks
1 und Large onion, chopped
2 und Large, chopped tomatoes
2 und Chopped garlic
1 Cup Fresh or frozen peas
1 Cup Carrots, chopped
1 Cup Potatoes, peeled and chopped
Banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions
- In a processor, food grinder or blender, blend the shelled corn with 1/2 cup water and 1 teaspoon salt until smooth dough is obtained. Reserve.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion, tomatoes, garlic and red pepper to the skillet and cook until soft, about 5 minutes more.
- Add the peas, carrots and potatoes to the pan and mix well.
- Add 1 cup water to the pan and cook over low heat until the vegetables are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the banana leaves. If they are fresh, cook them over the flame of a stove for a few seconds to soften them and make them more pliable. If they are frozen, thaw them in the microwave or at room temperature.
- Take a banana leaf and place a large tablespoon of the meat and vegetable mixture in the center. Cover with a tablespoon of the cornmeal and fold the sheet to form a package. Be sure to fold the edges to seal the package.
- Repeat with the remaining banana leaves and meat and vegetable mixture.
- Fill a large pot with water and place a steam basket on top. Place the wrappers in the basket and steam for 45 minutes to an hour, until the cornmeal is cooked.
- Serve hot and enjoy this delicious typical Colombian meal. Good use!
Choclo wrapping and health benefits
Colombian choclo wraps contain several ingredients that can provide health benefits, such as:
- Choclo or tender maize is rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber and antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and cancer.
- The vegetables used in the stuffing, such as peas, carrots and potatoes, are a source of vitamins, minerals and fiber, which contributes to a balanced and healthy diet.
- Meats that can be used in the stuffing, such as pork, chicken or res, can provide high quality protein, vitamins and minerals important for health.
However, it is important to keep in mind that choclo wrap are a plate high in calories, fat and sodium, so it is recommended to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Healthier alternatives can also be sought, such as replacing fatty meats with lean meats or using additional vegetables in the filling to increase nutritional content.
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Image credit: freepik
