Cuban-Style Nachos - knedir Recipes

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These Cuban-Style Nachos are a showstopper that will take your nacho game to the next level. The pulled pork is juicy and tender, combined with melted cheese and a spicy kick from the pickled jalapeños, making each bite irresistible. Topped with creamy sour cream, tangy salsa, and a squeeze of fresh lime, they offer a burst of flavor that’s perfect for any casual get-together or game day.

The rich flavors of the pork and the balance of textures from the crunchy tortilla chips and creamy avocado create a perfect harmony. Serve these Cuban-inspired nachos as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, and watch your guests devour them in no time. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic nachos, combining savory, spicy, and creamy elements that will surely satisfy every craving.

Full Recipe:

1 lb pork shoulder or pork butt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 bag tortilla chips
1 cup Cuban-style black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup lime juice
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup fresh avocado slices

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Rub the spice mixture over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then sear the pork for about 3 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C). Once cooked, remove from the oven and shred the pork with a fork.
On a large baking sheet, spread a layer of tortilla chips, then top with shredded pork, black beans, pickled jalapeños, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the nachos from the oven and drizzle with sour cream, lime juice, and salsa. Top with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and avocado slices.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings

History and Origin

The concept of nachos originated in Mexico in the 1940s, but Cuban-style nachos are a modern fusion dish inspired by the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Cuba. Cuban cuisine is known for its bold flavors, featuring a combination of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, and its cuisine often includes hearty meats, fresh vegetables, and tropical fruits.

The use of pulled pork in Cuban cuisine is deeply rooted in the island’s culinary traditions. Known as lechón asado, slow-roasted pork is a beloved dish that is often served during celebrations and family gatherings. The combination of pork and crispy tortilla chips in Cuban-Style Nachos brings together two seemingly distinct culinary traditions—Mexican and Cuban—while maintaining the rich, hearty, and bold flavors that are characteristic of both.

In a traditional Cuban meal, you might find roasted pork alongside rice, black beans, and plantains. Cuban-Style Nachos take the essence of these ingredients and layer them on top of crunchy tortilla chips, elevating this snack into a flavorful fiesta of taste.

Variations and Adaptations

While Cuban-Style Nachos are delicious as is, there are several variations and adaptations that you can try, depending on your preferences and dietary restrictions.

Vegetarian Version: For a meatless version, substitute the pulled pork with black beans or grilled vegetables. You could also use tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed, plant-based alternative. Adding guacamole and extra salsa will make this version just as satisfying.
Cheese Options: While the recipe calls for mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, you can experiment with different types of cheese to add complexity to the dish. A sharp, tangy cheese like feta or cotija could work beautifully, or you could swap out the mozzarella for a more melt-friendly cheese like Monterey Jack.
Add Tropical Fruits: Cuban cuisine is rich with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple. Try topping your nachos with diced mango or a few pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast to the spicy jalapeños.
Meat Variations: If you’re not a fan of pork, you can easily substitute it with chicken, beef, or even chorizo. Each of these meats will bring its own flavor to the dish, but they will all pair wonderfully with the cheese and fresh toppings.

Nutritional Information

Cuban-Style Nachos are a delicious indulgence, but they also provide a balance of macronutrients, thanks to the combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.

Calories: On average, a serving of Cuban-Style Nachos contains about 650 calories. However, this will vary based on the amount of cheese and sour cream used. For a lighter version, you can reduce the cheese or substitute it with a lower-fat option.
Protein: Pulled pork is an excellent source of protein, providing around 30 grams per serving. The beans also contribute a small amount of protein, so this dish is a good choice for satisfying your hunger.
Carbohydrates: Tortilla chips are the main source of carbohydrates in this dish, with each serving offering approximately 35-40 grams. The black beans add fiber and complex carbohydrates, making this a relatively well-balanced dish.
Fats: This recipe contains a moderate amount of fat, mostly from the cheese, sour cream, and avocado. Avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, while the cheese contributes saturated fat. To reduce the fat content, consider using a lower-fat cheese or cutting back on the sour cream.
Micronutrients: The fresh cilantro, red onions, and avocado provide a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, cilantro is rich in vitamin K, while avocado is high in potassium and fiber. The lime juice adds a burst of vitamin C, which helps support immune health.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cuban-Style Nachos are perfect for casual meals and social gatherings. They’re not just for game day—these nachos can be a showstopper at any party, offering something a little different from the usual fare. Here are some ideas for serving and pairing:

As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve Cuban-Style Nachos as a shared appetizer before a meal. Pair them with a refreshing citrus-based cocktail, like a mojito or a Cuba Libre, to complement the dish’s zesty flavors. If you’re serving them at a party, make sure to provide extra salsa and guacamole on the side for dipping.
With a Salad: For a more substantial meal, serve the nachos with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness. A simple avocado and lime salad, or even a Cuban-inspired slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and cilantro, would pair beautifully with the nachos.
Pair with a Cold Beer: The rich, savory flavor of pulled pork on the nachos goes perfectly with a cold beer, particularly a light lager or pale ale. The beer will help cut through the richness of the cheese while complementing the spiciness of the jalapeños.
For a Complete Cuban Meal: If you’re craving more Cuban flavors, serve the nachos as part of a larger Cuban-themed meal. Pair them with tostones (fried plantains) or a side of yuca con mojo (cassava with garlic sauce) for a full Cuban feast.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use Fresh Tortilla Chips: While store-bought tortilla chips are convenient, homemade chips can take your nachos to the next level. You can easily fry or bake your own tortilla chips for a fresh, crispy base.
Avoid Overcrowding the Chips: When layering the toppings, try not to overcrowd the tortilla chips. This will help them stay crispy and prevent the nachos from getting soggy.
Shred the Pork in Advance: To make the recipe even easier, you can cook the pork ahead of time. Simply roast the pork, shred it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the nachos. This will save you time and ensure a quick assembly when it’s time to serve.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you love heat, feel free to add more pickled jalapeños or even some diced fresh chilies to the nachos. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapeños or omit them altogether.

Potential Health Benefits

While Cuban-Style Nachos are a treat best enjoyed in moderation, there are a few health benefits to be found in some of the ingredients. Pulled pork, for instance, is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune function. Avocado is also a nutritional powerhouse, providing healthy fats, fiber, and potassium. It can help improve heart health and support digestive function.

The black beans in this dish provide fiber, iron, and antioxidants, which contribute to digestive health and help maintain steady energy levels. Fresh cilantro is another health-boosting ingredient, known for its potential detoxifying properties and high vitamin K content, which supports bone health.

Conclusion

Cuban-Style Nachos are a fun, flavorful, and creative twist on a classic snack, perfect for sharing with friends and family. They combine the rich and savory flavors of Cuban cuisine with the beloved crunch of tortilla chips, making for a truly irresistible dish. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual meal, or just craving something delicious, these nachos are sure to satisfy every craving. So go ahead and give them a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy nachos!