Colombian Tamales Recipe

Colombian tamales are a traditional dish made from steamed corn dough filled with a savory mixture of pork, chicken, and vegetables, all wrapped in banana leaves. They are typically served with hogao (a tomato and onion sauce) and a slice of lime. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups masarepa (pre-cooked cornmeal)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon achiote (annatto) powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 300g pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 300g chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup peas
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Assembling:

• Banana leaves, cut into large squares
• Kitchen string

For Serving:

• Hogao (tomato and onion sauce)
• Lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the masarepa, salt, ground cumin, and achiote powder.
   • Gradually add the chicken broth and vegetable oil, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
   • Add the pork shoulder and chicken thighs, and cook until they are browned on all sides.
   • Add the chopped tomatoes, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes break down.
   • Add the sliced carrot, diced potato, and peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Tamales:
   • Place a banana leaf square on a flat surface.
   • Spread a portion of the dough in the center of the leaf.
   • Add a spoonful of the filling on top of the dough.
   • Fold the banana leaf over the filling to form a packet, and tie it securely with kitchen string.
   • Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
4. Steam the Tamales:
   • In a large pot, bring water to a boil and place a steamer basket inside.
   • Arrange the tamales in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the dough is firm and cooked through.
5. Serve:
   • Carefully unwrap the tamales and transfer them to serving plates.
   • Serve with a side of hogao and lime wedges.

Enjoy your Colombian tamales, a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!