Bollo de Maduro
Bollo de Maduro is a sweet Ecuadorian delicacy made from ripe plantains, often filled with cheese or sometimes a sweet filling, then wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed or baked. It's a popular snack or dessert, especially in the coastal regions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 large Ripe plantains(very ripe, almost black skin)
- 6-8 leaves Plantain leaves(warmed to make pliable)
- 150 g Queso Costeño (or other firm, slightly salty cheese)(cubed or grated)
- 2-3 tbsp Sugar(optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon(ground)
- 1-2 whole Cloves(optional)
- 1 tbsp Butter or oil(for greasing leaves)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the plantain leaves: Wash and gently warm the plantain leaves to make them pliable. You can do this by passing them over a low flame or dipping them in hot water. Cut them into manageable sizes.
- 2
Prepare the plantain dough: Peel the very ripe plantains and mash them thoroughly until a smooth paste forms. If desired, mix in sugar, cinnamon, and cloves for a sweeter version. You can also add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the dough for richness.
- 3
Assemble the bollos: Lay out a prepared plantain leaf. Lightly grease it with butter or oil. Place a portion of the mashed plantain dough in the center. Create a small well and place a piece of cheese (or your chosen filling) inside. Cover the filling with more plantain dough, shaping it into an oval or rectangular packet.
- 4
Wrap the bollos: Fold the plantain leaf around the dough to enclose it completely, similar to making tamales. Secure with kitchen twine or by folding the leaf edges tightly.
- 5
Cook the bollos: You can either steam them in a pot with a little water for about 40-50 minutes, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes, until firm. Steaming is more traditional.
- 6
Serve: Let the bollos cool slightly before unwrapping. Serve warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use very ripe plantains for the best sweetness and texture.
- ✓If you can't find Queso Costeño, a firm, slightly salty cheese like feta or a mild white cheese can be substituted.
- ✓For a richer dough, add a tablespoon of butter or oil.
🔄 Variations
- Add a spoonful of sweetened condensed milk to the dough for extra sweetness.
- Fill with a sweet mixture of raisins and panela (unrefined whole cane sugar).
- Some recipes include a small amount of cooked rice in the dough.