Pork Tamales in Banana Leaves (Tamales Con Puerco)

Jun 07, 2023June 7, 20230 1
Authentic Pork Tamales in Banana Leaves recipe
in Main

Prep

45 min

Cook

2 hrs

Ready In

2 hrs 45 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 lb boneless pork shoulder , cut into 1/2-inch cubes
3 cups water
1 white onion , small , halved
2 garlic cloves
1 lb tomatillo , fresh , husks removed
boiling water
3 poblano chiles , fresh , roasted , peeled , seeded and de-veined
10 romaine lettuce leaves , small
3 sprigs cilantro , fresh
3 tablespoons white onions , chopped
7 1/2 tablespoons lard ( at room temperature ) or 7 1/2 tablespoons vegetable shortening ( at room temperature )
2 cups masa harina
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
4 -5 banana leaves
tomatoes , wedges

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
367
Sugar
3g
Fat
26g
Pork Tamales in Banana Leaves or Tamales Con Puerco are traditionally associated with festive occasions in Mexico, including Christmas, festivals and family gatherings. The process of filling, and wrapping the tamales is a long and rewarding experience, that has been passed down from generation to generation, and is often a social activity for family and friends. The banana leaves in which the tamales are wrapped provide a unique fragrance and texture that adds to the flavor. People of all ages enjoy these dough-wrapped treats, and they are sure to bring a touch of Mexican tradition to any gathering.

Instructions

1.Rinse the pork cubes under cold running water and drain.
2.Put the pork, water, onion and garlic in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
3.Skim any foam from the surface, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer gently, uncovered for about 1 hour until the pork is cooked and tender.
4.Drain the pork, reserving the cooking liquid, and discard the onion and garlic.
5.To make the green sauce, start by cooking the tomatillos in boiling water for 5 minutes or until they change their color.
6.Remove from the heat and drain.
7.Place the tomatillos in a blender along with the roasted poblanos, romaine lettuce, cilantro, chopped onion, and a few tablespoons of the pork cooking liquid. Puree the mixture until smooth.
8.In a mixing bowl, beat the lard or vegetable shortening with an electric mixer until it is fluffy.
9.In another bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, and baking powder.
10.Add the masa harina mixture to the lard in 2 or 3 parts alternating with the pureed tomatillo mixture, beating well after each addition. Add some of the cooking liquid, and beat until the dough is smooth and light.
11.Rinse the banana leaves in water and pat dry with paper towels. Cut them into rectangles of about 8 x 10 inches.
12.Take one of the rectangles, and place about 1/2 cup of the dough in the center. Spread the dough into a rough rectangle, leaving a border of about 1 inch all around.
13.Place about 2 tablespoons of the pork in the center of the rectangle.
14.Fold the long sides of the banana leaf over the pork to seal the tamale.
15.Fold the ends of the banana leaf over the tamale.
16.Using strips of excess banana leaf, tie the tamale in the center to keep it closed.
17.Repeat with the remaining dough and pork, soaking and patting the banana leaves dry between each tamale.
18.Steam the tamales for about an hour over a pot of boiling water, making sure the water doesn't touch the tamales.
19.Serve hot with tomato wedges on the side.

PROS

Tamales Con Puerco is a delicious and traditional Mexican dish that is perfect for any occasion.

The tamale’s fluffy and moist masa exterior has a sweet and spicy taste that blends perfectly with the savory pork filling.

Banana leaves in which the tamales are wrapped provide a unique flavor and aroma to the dish.

Tamales are easy to make and can be prepared well in advance of your event.

CONS

Tamales can be high in calories and fat depending on the type of filling, which may be a concern for those watching their weight.

Preparing tamales can be time-consuming and means you’ll have to get your hands a little dirty.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite their high calorie and fat content, tamales can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
Tamales Con Puerco are rich in protein from the pork and fiber from the masa and the banana leaves.
Pork contains vitamins B6 and B12 which are important for maintaining healthy nerve and red blood cells.

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