Are you ready for a culinary adventure that transports you straight to the heart of Cavite, Philippines? Then get ready to make these delicious Filipino tamales! This Caviteño-style recipe offers a unique twist on a classic, resulting in savory, flavorful tamales perfect for a comforting meal or a festive gathering. These aren't your average tamales; the distinct flavors and preparation make this a truly special homemade dish. Forget quick dinner ideas that lack substance; this is a healthy meal bursting with authentic Filipino taste.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 12 tamales.
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For the Filling (Sarsa):
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (patis)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup cooking oil
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For the Tamales:
- 2 lbs masa harina (corn flour)
- 6 cups water (approximately)
- 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt to taste
- Banana leaves (fresh or frozen, thawed)
Instructions:
Preparing the Filling (Sarsa):
- Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in carrots and potatoes. Cook until slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add green peas, raisins, soy sauce, fish sauce, pepper, and salt. Mix well and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Preparing the Masa:
- In a large bowl, combine masa harina, water, lard/shortening, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a stand mixer until a smooth, pliable dough is formed. Adjust water as needed; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Assembling the Tamales:
- Prepare your banana leaves by cleaning them thoroughly. If using fresh leaves, you may need to briefly blanch them in hot water to soften them. Cut leaves into approximately 12-inch squares.
- Spread a thin layer of masa onto the banana leaf, leaving about 1 inch of space on one side.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled filling (sarsa) in the center of the masa.
- Fold the sides of the banana leaf inwards, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. The seam should be facing down.
- Repeat with the remaining masa, filling, and banana leaves.
Steaming the Tamales:
- Place the assembled tamales in a steamer basket lined with banana leaves. Ensure they are not overcrowded.
- Steam over medium heat for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the tamales are cooked through and the masa is firm. You can check for doneness by gently pressing on a tamale; it should feel firm to the touch.
Tips for the Best Filipino Tamales:
- Don't overfill the tamales: This can cause them to burst during steaming.
- Use fresh ingredients: The flavor of your tamales will significantly improve with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to suit your preference.
- Proper steaming is crucial: Ensure sufficient water in your steamer to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Chicken Tamales: Substitute ground chicken for the pork.
- Vegetarian Tamales: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn.
- Spicy Tamales: Add some chili peppers or chili powder to the filling for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per tamale, approximate):
This is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients used.
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Filipino Tamales Caviteño! They're perfect for sharing with family and friends, and a wonderful way to experience the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. These easy recipes are a great addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes, offering a healthy and satisfying meal option. This recipe truly showcases the best recipes, offering both simplicity and incredible flavor.