Chayotes al Vapor (Steamed Chayotes)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons melted lard or safflower oil
• 1 pound (450 g) chayotes (Sechium edule), peeled and julienned 1/4-inch square
• 2 chiles serranos (Capsicum annuum), or more to taste, finely chopped
• Sea salt, to taste
• 2 heaped tablespoons cilantro, roughly chopped

Method

1. 1
   Heat the lard or oil in a heavy pan over high heat until shimmering.
2. 2
   Add the chayote strips and chopped serranos. Toss and cook over high heat for 2 minutes.
3. 3
   Season with sea salt. Cover the pan, reduce heat to medium, and cook approximately 8 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the strips are al dente.
4. 4
   Stir in the cilantro and cook uncovered for a further 3 minutes, until just tender.
5. 5
   Serve immediately.