Savory Tamales (puerto Rican Pasteles)

Savory Tamales, also known as Puerto Rican Pasteles, are a traditional West Indian dish that is a true labor of love. These delicious tamales are made with a seasoned meat filling wrapped in a dough made from plantains and root vegetables, then steamed to perfection. While they require some time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth it!

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course West Indian Puerto Rican Tamales Savory
Savory Tamales (puerto Rican Pasteles)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder, diced
  • 1 cup sofrito
  • 1 tsp adobo seasoning
  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 2 green bananas, grated
  • 1 cup grated yautia (taro root)
  • 1 cup grated calabaza (West Indian pumpkin)
  • 12 pieces of banana leaves, cut into 10x10 inch squares
  • 1 cup achiote oil
  • 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed olives
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, grated green bananas, grated yautia, and grated calabaza until well combined to form the dough.
  2. Season the diced pork shoulder with adobo seasoning and salt to taste.
  3. Spread a spoonful of the dough onto the center of a banana leaf square, then add a spoonful of the seasoned pork, a spoonful of sofrito, a few olives, and a drizzle of achiote oil.
  4. Wrap the banana leaf around the filling to form a rectangular package, then tie with kitchen twine to secure.
  5. Place the wrapped tamales in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour.
  6. Remove the tamales from the pot and let them cool for a few minutes before unwrapping and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Large bowl Kitchen twine

Tools

Knife Cutting board Grater

Serving suggestions

Serve the tamales with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

To save time, you can prepare the filling and dough in advance and assemble the tamales when you're ready to cook them.

Cost

$25