Peruvian Tamales (tamales Peruanos)

Peruvian Tamales, or Tamales Peruanos, are a traditional dish from Peru that consists of seasoned meat and corn dough, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. This dish is a labor of love, often prepared for special occasions and holidays.

Gluten Free Main Course Peruvian Peruvian Cuisine Tamales Traditional
Peruvian Tamales (tamales Peruanos)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1 lb of pork shoulder, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 cup of olives, sliced
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
  • 8 large banana leaves, softened
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina with the chicken broth to form a smooth dough. Set aside.
  2. In a skillet, sauté the pork, onion, and garlic until the pork is browned and the onions are soft. Add the cumin, paprika, olives, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. To assemble the tamales, place a banana leaf on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of the masa harina dough on the leaf. Place a spoonful of the pork mixture and a slice of hard-boiled egg on top of the dough. Fold the banana leaf to enclose the filling and secure with kitchen twine.
  4. In a large pot, arrange the tamales standing up with the folded side down. Add water to the pot, cover, and steam for 1.5 to 2 hours, adding more water as needed.
  5. Once cooked, remove the tamales from the pot and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Skillet Kitchen twine

Tools

Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serve the Peruvian tamales with aji sauce and a side of salsa criolla for a complete and authentic Peruvian meal.

Tips & tricks

Soak the banana leaves in warm water for a few minutes to make them pliable and easier to work with.

Cost

$20