Tamales Panameños – Tamales from Panama hold a place in the hearts of locals reflecting the cultural tapestry and celebratory atmosphere of the country. These flavorful bundles, encased in banana leaves are a treat enjoyed during gatherings and seasonal festivities notably, during the Christmas and New Years period. Making tamales is a group effort that fosters family bonds and encapsulates the timeless traditions of Panama.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 4 cups of corn flour (masa harina)
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil or lard
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
The Filling:
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder or chicken cut into pieces
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of chopped olives
- Rinse and drain capers measuring half a cup.
- Optionally add half a cup of raisins.
- Season, with cumin oregano paprika,
- salt and pepper according to taste.
For assembling:
Cut banana leaves into squares measuring twelve inches. Corn husks can be used as an alternative.
Use kitchen twine, for tying.
Instructions Prepare Tamales Panameños
Prepare Banana Leaves: If fresh banana leaves are used, wash them thoroughly. Cut them into squares. Make them flexible by passing each leaf over a flame until they turn glossy. Rinse banana leaves before cutting into squares.
Prepare the Dough: Combine corn flour (masa harina) salt and baking powder in a bowl.
Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring until the dough reaches a texture. Incorporate vegetable oil or lard until the dough becomes smooth and well-blended. Set it aside.
Prepare the Filling: Heat some oil in a pan, and overheat. Add onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender. Introduce chopped tomatoes. Cook until they break down to form a sauce. Brown the meat in the pan from all sides. Mix in olives, capers, raisins (if desired) cumin oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until everything is thoroughly mixed. Remove from heat. Allow it to cool slightly.
Construct the Tamales: Lay out a square of banana leaf on a surface. Spread an amount of masa dough at the center of the leaf to create a rectangle 1/2 inch thick. Place a spoonful of filling at the center of the masa rectangle. Fold the sides of the banana leaf over the filling then fold over the top and bottom to enclose the tamale entirely. Secure, with kitchen twine if needed. Repeat this process until all dough and filling are utilized.
Steaming the Tamales: Start by filling a pot with some water and putting a steamer basket inside. Place the tamales, in the basket stacking them if needed. Cover the pot bring the water to a boil then lower the heat to medium low and steam the tamales for around 1.5 to 2 hours until the masa is firm and thoroughly cooked.
Serving Tamales Panameños
Once done carefully take out the tamales from the steamer. Let them cool a bit before unwrapping. Enjoy them warm with your salsa or alongside rice and beans.
Tamales Panameños represent more than a meal; they symbolize Panama’s history blending indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences. The intricate preparation process highlights the significance of family and community involvement, across generations. With each bite of this treat, you’re not only relishing a dish but also participating in an age-old tradition that unites people while preserving Panama’s cultural heritage through flavors and memories.
