Tamales Costarricenses Tradicionales (traditional Costa Rican Tamales)

Tamales Costarricenses Tradicionales, or Traditional Costa Rican Tamales, are a beloved dish in Costa Rican cuisine. These tamales are typically made for special occasions and holidays, bringing families and communities together to enjoy the delicious flavors of this traditional dish.

Gluten Free Main Course Costa Rican Tamales Costa Rican Cuisine Traditional
Tamales Costarricenses Tradicionales (traditional Costa Rican Tamales)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 12 banana leaves, cut into 12x12 inch squares
  • 1 pound pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup cooked black beans
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 12 pitted olives

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, lard or vegetable shortening, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the chicken broth and mix until the dough is smooth.
  2. Place a banana leaf square on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of the masa mixture on the center of the leaf.
  3. Top the masa with a spoonful of shredded pork, rice, black beans, bell peppers, carrots, potatoes, raisins, and an olive.
  4. Fold the banana leaf to enclose the filling and form a rectangular package. Tie the tamale with kitchen twine to secure it.
  5. Place the tamales in a large steamer pot and steam for 2-3 hours, adding more water to the pot as needed.
  6. Once cooked, let the tamales rest for a few minutes before serving. Unwrap the banana leaves and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

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

Supplies

Large steamer pot Kitchen twine

Tools

Knife Cutting board Mixing bowl

Serving suggestions

Serve the tamales with a side of salsa Lizano for an authentic Costa Rican experience.

Tips & tricks

To save time, you can prepare the filling and masa ahead of time and assemble the tamales the day of cooking.

Cost

$20