Recipe of Tamales de Guatemala

Ingredients

• 2 cups masa harina (corn masa flour)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 12 banana leaves, cut into 10x10 inch squares and softened in hot water
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup tomato, diced
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, chicken broth, vegetable oil, baking powder, and salt. Mix until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough.

2. 2

   In a separate skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the green bell pepper, tomato, green beans, carrots, and peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. 3

   To assemble the tamales, take a softened banana leaf square and place a spoonful of masa dough in the center. Flatten it with the back of a spoon to form a rectangle.

4. 4

   Add a spoonful of the chicken and vegetable mixture on top of the masa.

5. 5

   Fold the banana leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides to create a rectangular bundle. Secure with kitchen twine.

6. 6

   Repeat this process with the remaining masa and filling.

7. 7

   In a large steamer pot, arrange the tamales upright. Steam over medium-high heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the masa is cooked and firm.

8. 8

   Allow the tamales to cool for a few minutes before serving.

9. 9

   Serve your delicious Tamales de Guatemala with salsa and enjoy a taste of authentic Guatemalan cuisine!