Peruvian Tamales Criollos

Jun 08, 2023June 8, 20230 4
Authentic Peruvian Tamales Criollos recipe
in Main

Prep

60 min

Cook

90 min

Ready In

150 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

2 lbs of peeled white corn
2 1/2 lbs pork chops ( no bones )
6 dried red chilies
2 fresh yellow chilies , roasted ( Aji MIrasol )
6 egg yolks
2 hard-boiled eggs , cut into eight pieces ( wedges , not slices )
2 tablespoons vinegar
8 freshh garlic cloves , peeled
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
50 g roasted sesame seeds
100 g roasted peanuts ( ground )
1/2 lb pork fat
2 cups water
100 g black olives ( preferably Peruvian )
1 lb banana leaf ( cut in 12-inch X 18-inch pieces )
string
10 ears corn on the cob ( without kernels )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
10
Calories
590
Sugar
10g
Fat
30g
Peruvian Tamales Criollos are a popular dish that is enjoyed in many regions of Peru. They are typically served during special occasions, such as festivals and family gatherings. This traditional dish has been handed down through generations and varies from region to region. In this recipe, we use a mixture of pork chops, chili sauce, and a blend of herbs and spices to provide a rich and flavorful filling. The tamales are then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until they are firm to the touch. Served with a side of Salsa Criolla, these tamales are a delicious way to experience the flavors of Peru in your own home.

Instructions

1.Preparing the Filling:
2.Take the pork chops and season them with salt and pepper.
3.Roast the dried red chilies and fry them in a pan with vinegar. Once they are soft and plump, place them in a blender along with the roasted yellow chilies and two egg yolks. Blend the mixture until it becomes a smooth sauce.
4.Using a mortar and pestle, crush the roasted garlic cloves and add them to the chili sauce along with the roasted sesame seeds, ground peanuts, and cumin. Mix well.
5.Cut the pork fat into small cubes and fry it until crispy. Add it to the chili sauce mixture.
6.Cut the pork chops into small pieces and fry them in the same pan used to fry the pork fat until golden brown on all sides. Add them to the chili sauce mixture and mix well.
7.Add the olives and boiled eggs to the chili sauce mixture and mix well.
8.Preparing the Corn Mixture:
9.Place the peeled white corn in a blender and blend it until it becomes a smooth puree. Add 2 cups of water and blend again until the mixture becomes a smooth and thick paste.
10.Wrapping the Tamales:
11.Cut the banana leaves into 12-inch by 18-inch pieces.
12.Take one piece of banana leaf, place it on a flat surface with the shiny side facing down, and spread a thin layer of corn mixture on it. Leave a 2-inch border around the edges.
13.Place a spoonful of the filling mixture on top of the corn mixture.
14.Fold the edges of the banana leaf inwards to form a rectangular shape, making sure all sides are covered.
15.Tie the tamale with string to keep it in shape.
16.Repeat until all the corn and filling mixture has been used up.
17.Steaming the Tamales:
18.Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
19.Add the corn cobs to the boiling water, followed by the tamales.
20.Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 60-90 minutes, or until the tamales are firm to the touch.
21.Serving the Tamales:
22.Remove the tamales from the pot and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
23.Serve with a side of Salsa Criolla.
24.Salsa Criolla Recipe:
25.Ingredients:
26.1 red onion, finely chopped
27.4 aji limo peppers, finely chopped
28.2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
29.1/4 cup of cilantro leaves, finely chopped
30.1 lime, juiced
31.Salt and pepper to taste
32.Instructions:
33.Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

PROS

Peruvian Tamales Criollos are a traditional and delicious dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

They are rich in protein and nutrients, making them a satisfying and healthy meal option.

CONS

The process of preparing tamales can be time-consuming and requires a lot of preparation.

They are also high in calories and fat, especially due to the use of pork fat and ground peanuts.
They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Peruvian Tamales Criollos are a good source of protein and fiber, making them a filling and satisfying meal option.
They also contain a variety of herbs and spices, such as cumin, garlic, and yellow chili pepper, which are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
The use of corn in this recipe provides complex carbohydrates that are good for energy production and digestion.

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