Mexican Zongzi

Zongzi is traditionally a sweet or savory Chinese delicacy made with sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves. In this fusion recipe, we give it a Mexican twist by using ingredients commonly found in tamales. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors created by combining chicken, Mexican spices, and banana leaves.

Ingredients:

🍗 3 chicken breasts
🥬 2 celery sticks
🧅 1 onion
🧄 4 garlic cloves
🌶️ 1 jalapeño
🌶️ 4 guajillo peppers
🧂 Salt to taste
🍚 2 cups sushi rice
🍌 Banana leaves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
   In a large pot, add the chicken breasts, celery, onion, garlic, jalapeño, and guajillo peppers. Cover with water and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, about 25 minutes.
2. Shred and Blend:
   Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside. Transfer the cooked veggies and peppers to a blender, along with enough broth from the pot to create a smooth sauce. Blend until well combined.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   Mix the prepared sauce with the shredded chicken and add salt to taste. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Rice:
   Rinse the sushi rice under cold water and strain. Add a little of the broth used to cook the chicken to the rice and set aside.
5. Prepare the Banana Leaves:
   Wash the banana leaves thoroughly, drying them with paper towels or a clean cloth. Using scissors, remove the thick stem if present and cut the leaves into strips about 10 cm wide. If desired, soften the leaves by passing them over an open flame or soaking them in boiling water for easier folding.
6. Assemble the Zongzi:
   Take a strip of banana leaf and fold it into a cone shape. Add a layer of rice to the bottom, spoon a portion of the chicken filling in the middle, and top with more rice. Wrap the leaf around the filling tightly and secure with kitchen twine.
7. Steam the Zongzi:
   Place the wrapped zongzi in a steamer and steam for 2 hours. Ensure to add water to the steamer as needed to prevent it from drying out.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Blender
• Steamer
• Kitchen twine
• Scissors

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the banana leaves are well cleaned and softened to avoid tearing during folding.
• The broth can be adjusted to taste with more spices or herbs if desired.

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Mexican Zongzi

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