Maito de Pollo
Maito de Pollo is a traditional Amazonian dish from Ecuador, where chicken is marinated and then wrapped in bijao leaves (or banana leaves) along with aromatics and sometimes yuca dough, then steamed or grilled. This method imparts a unique flavor and keeps the chicken incredibly moist.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken pieces (thighs or breasts)(about 1.5 lbs total)
- 8-10 leaves Bijao leaves (or banana leaves)(warmed to make pliable)
- 1/2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/4 cup Bell pepper (green)(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Cilantro(chopped)
- 1 small Aji (hot pepper)(finely chopped, optional)
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Lime juice
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chicken marinade: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, cilantro, aji (if using), salt, cumin, vegetable oil, and lime juice. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15-20 minutes (or longer in the refrigerator).
- 2
Prepare the leaves: Gently warm the bijao or banana leaves over a low flame or in hot water to make them pliable and prevent tearing. If using banana leaves, wipe them clean.
- 3
Assemble the maitos: Lay out two layers of leaves for each maito, overlapping them. Place a marinated chicken piece in the center of the leaves. Add any extra marinade.
- 4
Wrap the leaves securely to form a rectangular packet (maito). You can tie them with kitchen twine or use the natural fibers of the leaves if available.
- 5
Cook the maitos: You can either steam them in a pot with a little water for about 30-40 minutes, or grill them over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- 6
Serve: Carefully unwrap the maito and serve hot, directly from the leaf.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the leaves are pliable before wrapping to avoid tearing.
- ✓Adjust the amount of aji to your spice preference.
- ✓For extra flavor, you can add a small piece of yuca dough or a slice of tomato inside the maito.
🔄 Variations
- Use fish or pork instead of chicken.
- Add other vegetables like tomatoes or plantains.
- Grill the maitos for a smoky flavor.