Follow these steps for perfect results
Chicken Broth
White Cornmeal (Arepa Flour)
Annatto Oil
Diced Tomatoes
drained
Italian Dressing
zesty
Capers
Cooked Chicken
shredded
Cooked Pork
shredded
Banana Leaves
10x6 inch
Onion
thinly sliced
Sliced Almonds
Bacon
cooked, chopped
Pimento-Stuffed Green Olives
Red Pepper
thin strips
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, gradually add chicken broth to the white cornmeal (arepa flour), stirring constantly until a soft dough forms.
Knead in annatto oil until well blended. The dough will be light yellow-orange in color.
Cover the dough with a clean, damp kitchen towel and set aside.
Prepare the filling: In a medium saucepan, cook diced tomatoes, Italian dressing, and capers on medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add shredded cooked chicken and pork; cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Set the filling aside.
Assemble the tamales: Spoon 1/4 cup of dough onto the center of one banana leaf and spread into a 5x3-inch rectangle.
Top with 1/3 cup of meat mixture, 1 onion slice, 1/2 tsp of nuts, 1 Tbsp of bacon, 2 olives, and 1 pepper strip.
Set aside.
Spoon 1/4 cup of the remaining dough onto the center of a second banana leaf and spread into a 6x4-inch rectangle.
Carefully place the second banana leaf, dough-side down, over the filling on the first banana leaf; press together gently.
Fold over the lengthwise sides of the leaves, then fold over both remaining sides to completely enclose the filling.
Tie closed with kitchen twine.
Repeat to make 12 tamales.
Steam the tamales: Pour 2 cups of water into an 8-quart stockpot fitted with a steamer basket.
Line the bottom of the basket with the remaining banana leaves; top with the tamales.
Cover with a lid.
Bring the water to a boil on medium-high heat.
Steam on medium-low heat for 1 hour or until the tamales pull away from the banana leaves, adding more boiling water to the pan when necessary.
Remove from the steamer and cool slightly before serving.
Expert advice for the best results
Make sure to tie the tamales tightly to prevent water from seeping in during steaming.
Check water level periodically to prevent scorching.
Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
Can be made a day ahead and steamed before serving.
Serve tamales on a plate still wrapped in banana leaves.
Serve warm.
Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Crisp and refreshing
Complements the savory flavors
Discover the story behind this recipe
A traditional dish often served during holidays and special occasions.
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