Authentic Salvadoran Tamales (Tamales Auténticos Salvadoreños)

Tamales are a traditional dish in Salvadoran cuisine, typically enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. These Tamales Auténticos Salvadoreños are filled with a flavorful combination of pork, vegetables, and spices, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed to perfection.

Authentic Salvadoran Tamales (Tamales Auténticos Salvadoreños)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 cups chicken or pork broth
  • 1 pound pork shoulder, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 12 banana leaves, softened

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, lard, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the broth and mix until a smooth dough forms.
  2. In a separate pan, cook the pork, onion, tomatoes, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, and oregano until the pork is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
  3. To assemble the tamales, spread a thin layer of the masa dough onto a softened banana leaf. Add a spoonful of the pork filling in the center, then fold the banana leaf to enclose the filling. Repeat for the remaining tamales.
  4. Place the tamales in a large steamer pot and steam for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the masa is firm and cooked through.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
1 hour
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
3 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
15g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large bowl Pan Steamer pot

Tools

Spoon Knife

Serving suggestions

Serve the Tamales Auténticos Salvadoreños with curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and salsa roja for a traditional Salvadoran meal.

Tips & tricks

Soak the banana leaves in warm water for 30 minutes to soften them before assembling the tamales.

Cost

$20