Guaba Rellena de Carne
Guaba Rellena de Carne, also known as 'Pasteles en Hoja' in some regions, are savory parcels made from a dough of green plantains or yuca, filled with seasoned ground meat, and steamed in banana leaves. This dish is a festive staple, often prepared during holidays and family gatherings, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of the Dominican Republic.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 medium Green plantains
- 1 lb Yuca (cassava)(peeled and boiled until tender)
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1/2 cup Milk
- to taste Salt
- 1.5 lb Ground beef or pork
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Sofrito (Dominican seasoning base)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Adobo seasoning
- 1 package Banana leaves(wilted over flame or hot water)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: Peel and boil the green plantains until very tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, and salt until smooth. If using yuca, mash the boiled yuca until smooth and combine with the plantain mash.
💡 Tip: Ensure the plantains and yuca are thoroughly cooked and mashed for a smooth dough. - 2
Prepare the filling: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste, sofrito, cumin, oregano, and adobo seasoning. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
💡 Tip: Adjust seasonings to your preference. - 5
Assemble the guabas: Lay out a wilted banana leaf. Place a portion of the dough in the center and flatten it into a circle. Add a spoonful of the meat filling in the center.
💡 Tip: Ensure the banana leaves are pliable by wilting them. - 6
Fold the banana leaf to enclose the filling, creating a neat parcel. Secure with kitchen twine if necessary.
💡 Tip: Fold tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out. - 7
Steam the guabas in a large pot with about 2 inches of water for about 45-60 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and firm.
💡 Tip: Ensure the water does not boil dry during steaming. - 8
Serve hot. Guaba Rellena de Carne can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of rice.
💡 Tip: Allow to cool slightly before unwrapping.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dough should be pliable but not sticky. Add more flour if too wet, or a little milk if too dry.
- ✓You can substitute chicken for the ground meat.
- ✓For a richer filling, add some chopped olives or capers.
🔄 Variations
- Use ripe plantains for a sweeter dough.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the meat filling for a hint of warmth.