Bollo Preñado
A traditional Panamanian street food, 'bollo preñado' are corn masa parcels filled with seasoned meat (often pork or chicken) and wrapped in plantain leaves before being steamed. They are savory, filling, and a beloved snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Corn masa(freshly ground or store-bought, for tamales)
- 300 g Pork shoulder(finely diced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Achiote (annatto) powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 16 large Plantain leaves(wilted over heat or hot water to make them pliable)
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth(or water, for masa consistency)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the filling: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pork and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
- 2
Stir in the achiote powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- 3
Prepare the masa: In a large bowl, combine the corn masa with enough chicken broth (or water) to form a soft, pliable dough. It should not be sticky. Season with a pinch of salt.
- 4
Assemble the bollos: Lay out a piece of wilted plantain leaf. Place a portion of masa in the center and flatten it into a disc. Spoon some of the meat filling onto the masa disc.
- 5
Fold the masa over the filling to enclose it, forming a rectangular parcel. Wrap the parcel tightly with the plantain leaf, securing it like a small package. Repeat with the remaining masa and filling.
- 6
Steam the bollos: Place the wrapped bollos in a large steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 1 hour, or until the masa is firm and cooked through.
- 7
Remove from steamer and let rest for a few minutes before unwrapping and serving hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the plantain leaves are well-wilted to prevent tearing.
- ✓The consistency of the masa is key; it should be moldable but not sticky.
- ✓For a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- The filling can be made with shredded chicken, fish, or even a vegetarian option with seasoned vegetables.
- Some variations include adding a small piece of sweet pepper or a slice of hard-boiled egg to the filling.