Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of masa harina
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cumin
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until caramelized, stirring occasionally. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, water, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
5. Add the caramelized onions and bacon to the mixing bowl and stir until evenly distributed.
6. In the same skillet, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
7. Add the masa harina mixture to the skillet and stir until well combined.
8. Pour the mixture into an 8x8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 215
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 23mg
Sodium: 224mg
Total carbohydrates: 26g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Total sugars: 8g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of bacon, you can use ham or sausage.
- Instead of brown sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup.
- Instead of butter, you can use margarine or vegetable oil.
Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Add shredded cheese to the mixture before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Use chicken or beef broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the onions until they are caramelized to bring out their sweetness.
- Use a wooden spoon to mix the masa harina mixture to prevent it from sticking to the bowl.
- Let the nicuatole cool for 10 minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage Instructions:
Store the nicuatole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the nicuatole in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the nicuatole on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped bacon and caramelized onions on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a side of refried beans and rice for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Refried beans
- Spanish rice
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the nicuatole is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the nicuatole is too wet, add a tablespoon of masa harina at a time until it thickens.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the nicuatole to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food History:
Nicuatole is a traditional Mexican dessert made from masa harina, water, and sugar. It is believed to have originated in the state of Oaxaca and is often flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, or chocolate.
Flavor Profiles:
The caramelized onions and bacon add a savory and smoky flavor to the sweet masa harina mixture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the nicuatole as a dessert or a side dish with a savory meal.
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Taste: Savory, Salty, Sweet, Umami, Caramelized