Tamale (curaçaoan Ayaka)
The Tamale, also known as Ayaka in Curaçao, is a traditional dish that is popular during the holiday season. It is a labor of love to prepare, but the delicious flavors and aromas make it well worth the effort.
Ingredients
- 3 cups masa harina
- 1 cup lard
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pound pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup pitted olives
- 1 cup raisins
- 12 banana leaves, softened
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, lard, chicken broth, salt, and baking powder to form a smooth dough.
- Spread the masa dough onto the softened banana leaves.
- Place a portion of the shredded pork, olives, and raisins in the center of each masa-covered banana leaf.
- Wrap the banana leaves around the filling to form individual tamales.
- Steam the tamales for 1-1.5 hours until the masa is firm.
- Allow the tamales to cool slightly 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
- 350 per serving
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Protein
- 15g
- Fat
- 12g
Supplies
Large mixing bowl Steamer pot
Tools
Knife Measuring cups and spoons
Serving suggestions
Serve the tamales with a side of pickled onions and hot sauce for an authentic Curaçaoan experience.
Tips & tricks
Soak the banana leaves in warm water for 30 minutes to soften them before using for wrapping the tamales.
Cost
$20