World Flavors Cookbook

Vaho (Vaporizado)

Nicaraguan steamed beef, plantain, and yuca layered on banana leaves — the Sunday feast dish slowly steamed in its own juices.

Cuisine: Nicaragua

Ingredients

• 700g beef flank or brisket, sliced thin
• 3 green plantains, halved lengthwise
• 3 ripe plantains, halved lengthwise
• 2 yuca, peeled and quartered
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Banana leaves
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Layer banana leaves in the bottom of a large pot.
2. Place yuca on the bottom layer.
3. Add green plantains and beef slices. Season.
4. Add ripe plantains, tomato, and onion.
5. Cover with more banana leaves.
6. Add 1 cup water. Seal tightly.
7. Steam on low heat 2 hours until everything is tender.