Colombian Tamales

Jun 08, 2023June 8, 20230 2
Authentic Colombian Tamales with a savory stuffing
in Main

Prep

45 min

Cook

1 hour

Ready In

1 hour 45 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

3 chicken thighs , skin removed and cut in half lengthwise with equal portions of meat
6 pork ribs ( spareribs )
3 bunches green onions ( scallions )
6 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons sazon goya
2 large tomatoes , chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro , chopped
1/8 cup sugar
1/2 cup white vinegar
salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
3 cups masa harina , prepared with chicken broth instead of water and a little salt
2 large carrots , peeled and sliced
1/2 cup frozen green pea
2 large red potatoes , scrubbed and sliced into sticks like French fries
3 hard-boiled eggs , sliced ( optional )
banana leaf , cut into 12 inch square pieces , rinsed in very hot tap water
kitchen string
aluminum foil

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
384
Sugar
5g
Fat
15g
Tamales are a popular food in many Latin American countries, and each country has its own unique recipe. Colombian Tamales are a twist on this classic dish, and they are made with a stuffing of chicken, pork, and vegetables wrapped in banana leaves and boiled until cooked through. The masa harina mixture is flavored with herbs and spices, such as cumin and sazon goya, which give it a distinct taste. The dish is usually served with salsa or hot sauce on top, and it can be enjoyed as a main course or a snack. Colombian Tamales are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

1.Prepare the stuffing by mixing together the chicken, pork ribs, green onions, garlic, cumin, sazon goya, tomatoes, cilantro, sugar, vinegar, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
2.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add lemon juice and 1/4 cup of water.
3.Add the prepared masa harina to the skillet and stir until well combined. Stir in the sliced carrots, green peas, and red potatoes.
4.Cut 12-inch square pieces of banana leaf and rinse them in very hot tap water to soften them.
5.Place a banana leaf square on a flat surface and add a spoonful of the masa harina mixture in the center. Top the mixture with a spoonful of the chicken-pork mixture, and a slice of hard-boiled egg (optional).
6.Fold the banana leaf ends, one on top of each other, to encase the filling, and then fold the remaining two ends of the banana leaf on top.
7.Tie the folded banana leaf packages with kitchen string to secure them.
8.Wrap each banana leaf package in aluminum foil and place them in a pot with enough water to cover them.
9.Boil the tamale packages for about 1 hour. Serve hot.

PROS

Colombian Tamales are a filling and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course or a snack.
They have a unique taste and texture due to the blend of savory and sweet flavors in the masa harina mixture.

CONS

This recipe takes a lot of time and effort, as it requires several different ingredients and cooking steps.
The banana leaves can be difficult to wrap, and the tamales must be boiled for an hour before serving.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Colombian Tamales are a good source of protein and fiber, as they contain chicken, pork, and vegetables. They also provide carbohydrates from the masa harina, which can help provide energy for the body. The green peas and carrots in the recipe are good sources of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

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