Colombian Tamales Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes  

   Prep Time: 45 minutes

Colombian Tamales Ingredients

Colombian Tamales Instructions

  1. Rinse the banana leaves under warm water, then pass them over an open flame or a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side until they become pliable and glossy. Cut them into 12-inch squares and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pork shoulder cubes and chicken thigh chunks. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Sear the meat until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the melted lard or butter. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the julienned carrots, peas, and seared meats back to the skillet. Sprinkle in the remaining cumin, smoked paprika, achiote, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the masa harina with the chicken stock. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add more stock if needed for a spreadable consistency. Stir in 1/2 cup of the sautéed onion mixture, 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, and the remaining black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
  6. Lay a banana leaf square on a clean surface. Spread about 1/3 cup of masa dough in the center, forming a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick.
  7. Place a generous spoonful of the meat and vegetable filling on top of the masa. Add a small amount of cooked white rice and a few slices of green olives.
  8. Fold the sides of the banana leaf over the filling, then fold the top and bottom to form a secure package. Tie with kitchen twine to hold the tamal together.
  9. Repeat the assembly process with the remaining ingredients until all tamales are wrapped and tied.
  10. Arrange the tamales upright in a large steamer, making sure they are not packed too tightly. Add water to the steamer base, cover, and steam over medium heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to add more water if needed.
  11. Remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool for 10 minutes before unwrapping. Serve warm, discarding the banana leaves before eating.

Estimated Calories: 340, Servings: 8

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About Tamales Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy a taste of Colombia at home, this homemade tamales recipe is exactly what you need! These delicious tamales are packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The process of how to make these tasty treats is surprisingly easy, making it a perfect recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With a few quick tips, you'll be able to create the best tamales that are sure to impress your family and friends.
One of the secrets to this authentic tamales recipe is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the savory filling to the perfectly seasoned masa, every bite is bursting with delicious flavors. If you've ever wondered how to make tamales that are both easy and quick, this recipe breaks down each step so you can follow along with confidence. The result is a batch of homemade tamales that are not only tasty but also have that perfect texture and taste you'd expect from the best Colombian kitchens.
Don't forget to check out the helpful tips included in this recipe to ensure your tamales turn out just right every time. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just craving something delicious and comforting, this easy and authentic tamales recipe is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and discover how to make the perfect tamales at home. Get ready to enjoy the best, most delicious homemade tamales you've ever tasted!

Tamales Quick Mistake Fixes

Imagine biting into a tamale and feeling as if you just took a sip from the ocean. Too much salt can sneak up on you like an unexpected rainstorm during a picnic, drenching what should have been a delicious, sunny experience. The best way to avoid this is to treat salt like a good friend: present, but never overwhelming. A quick taste before serving is like checking the weather before heading out, ensuring your meal is balanced and not overpowered. If things do get too salty, a fast fix is to pair the tamale with a bland side, which acts like an umbrella, shielding your palate from the storm.
Overcooking a tamale is like leaving your favorite shirt in the dryer for too long; what was once soft and inviting becomes tough and unyielding. The masa can turn dense and dry, making each bite feel like chewing on cardboard instead of enjoying a healthy, comforting meal. The best approach is to treat the cooking process like a good conversation: attentive, but not overbearing. Keeping an eye on the clock and checking for doneness ensures your tamales stay as soft and delicious as a freshly laundered towel, ready to be enjoyed in a quick, easy meal.
When it comes to appearance, a tamale that looks unappetizing is like a beautifully wrapped gift with a dented box. Even if the inside is great, the first impression can set the tone for the whole experience. A good presentation is the best way to invite people to the table, making the meal feel special and festive. Taking a fast moment to arrange the tamales neatly, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, can turn a simple dish into a celebration, making the recipe not just easy and quick, but also visually appealing and inviting.

Tamales Pairings

Flavors in Colombian cuisine are like a vibrant festival, each note dancing with the next in a joyful parade. The best way to describe the taste experience is to imagine a symphony where every instrument plays a unique role, yet together they create a harmonious melody. The combination of spices, herbs, and subtle sweetness in Colombian food is as good as a well-written song that lingers in your mind. A great recipe for a memorable meal is to embrace the balance of savory and aromatic flavors, which makes every bite feel like a quick escape to a bustling Colombian market. The healthy use of fresh ingredients ensures that the flavors are both delicious and easy to appreciate, much like a fast-paced dance that leaves you wanting more.
Pairing foods with Colombian dishes is like assembling a puzzle where every piece fits perfectly to reveal a beautiful picture. A good side to serve is a simple avocado salad, which acts as a cool breeze on a warm day, refreshing and light. For a great contrast, fried plantains are the best companion, offering a sweet and crispy counterpoint that is as satisfying as finding the last piece of a puzzle. Quick and easy to prepare, these sides add a delicious layer to the meal, making the whole experience feel complete and healthy, like a well-balanced painting with just the right amount of color.
When it comes to drinks, think of the meal as a lively conversation, and the beverage as the friend who brings everyone together. A traditional Colombian hot chocolate is the best choice, warming the soul like a cozy blanket on a rainy day. For a fast and refreshing option, a glass of fresh fruit juice, such as lulo or passion fruit, is as good as a splash of sunshine, brightening the meal with its tangy sweetness. These drinks are easy to prepare and healthy, making them a delicious and great addition to any gathering, much like a quick joke that lightens the mood and brings smiles all around.

Tamales Story

At first, my relationship with this dish was much like being handed a book in a language I could not read. I saw others enjoying it, but I could not decipher the appeal. It seemed like one of those recipes that everyone else claimed was the best, but I could not see past my own indifference. I would watch family and friends gather around, their faces lighting up with anticipation, while I sat quietly, convinced that my palate was simply not meant for this experience. It was as if I was standing outside a party, hearing laughter through the walls, but not feeling invited to join in.
Over time, curiosity nudged me closer, much like a traveler who finally decides to explore a well-trodden path after years of passing it by. I started to notice the little things: the way people described it as healthy, the stories they shared about how easy and quick it was to prepare for gatherings, and the pride they took in their own versions of the recipe. I realized that what I had dismissed as ordinary was actually a tapestry of tradition and care. With each new taste, I began to appreciate the subtlety and depth, understanding that sometimes the most delicious things are those that reveal themselves slowly, like a good story that builds with every chapter.
Now, my appreciation for this dish is like finding a song that grows on you until it becomes a favorite. I look forward to it, knowing that it brings people together in a way that few things can. I have learned that the best experiences are often those that require patience and an open mind. What once seemed unremarkable is now a great comfort, a reminder that good things can come from giving something a second chance. The process of making and sharing it has become a celebration, proof that even the most familiar recipes can surprise you with their warmth and joy when you finally let them in.

Healthy Tamales Tips

Making Colombian Tamales healthier is like tuning up a classic car for better mileage without losing its charm. Swap out fatty pork cuts for lean chicken breast or turkey, and you'll be fueling your body with protein while keeping saturated fats in check. Think of the masa as your vehicle's foundation-using whole grain cornmeal instead of refined versions adds fiber, much like upgrading to premium tires for a smoother, longer ride. When selecting ingredients for your homemade recipe, load up on colorful vegetables such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers; these are your engine's antioxidants, keeping everything running efficiently. The best tips for a health-focused, authentic tamales recipe include reducing salt and using fresh herbs for flavor, ensuring your dish is both tasty and heart-friendly.
Approaching the cooking process with health in mind is like assembling a balanced toolbox: every component should serve a purpose without excess. Steaming, rather than frying, preserves nutrients and keeps the tamales light, making this easy and quick method perfect for a nutritious meal. For the best results, avoid processed fillings and opt for simple, whole ingredients-think of it as choosing quality tools over flashy gadgets. If you're wondering how to make your tamales recipe even healthier, consider using olive oil in moderation instead of lard, which is like switching to eco-friendly fuel for a cleaner burn. With these health-conscious adjustments, your delicious, homemade Colombian tamales will be both authentic and perfect for anyone seeking a tasty, guilt-free treat.