Pasteles

Pasteles are a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with a dough filled with a savory meat mixture, wrapped in banana leaves, and boiled or steamed.

Ingredients - Serves 12

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the green bananas and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
Peel the green bananas and mash them in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine the grated yautia, mashed green bananas, and mashed green plantains. Mix well.
In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cooked and shredded pork shoulder to the skillet. Season with cilantro, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring well to combine.
Take a banana leaf square and place a spoonful of the dough mixture in the center. Spread it out into a rectangle shape.
Add a spoonful of the meat mixture on top of the dough.
Fold the banana leaf over the filling, then fold the sides in to form a tight package. Tie with kitchen twine to secure.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the pasteles and cook for 1 hour, or until the dough is firm and cooked through.
Remove the pasteles from the pot and let them cool slightly before unwrapping.
Serve the pasteles warm and enjoy!