Tamales Recipe Costa Rica: Authentic Flavor Made Easy

Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica with this authentic Tamales recipe Costa Rica that brings tradition right to your kitchen. Tamales are a beloved dish throughout Latin America, but Costa Rican tamales have a unique charm with their rich, savory fillings wrapped in banana leaves, creating a deliciously aromatic experience.

These tamales are perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a cozy weekend cooking project.

Making tamales might seem intimidating at first, but with this detailed recipe, you’ll find the process rewarding and enjoyable. From preparing the masa with fresh corn dough to the hearty filling of pork, vegetables, and spices, every bite offers a taste of Costa Rican culture.

Plus, wrapping and steaming the tamales creates a delightful tradition to share with loved ones.

Ready to dive into a culinary adventure? Let’s explore why you’ll absolutely love this recipe and how to make Costa Rican tamales step-by-step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Costa Rican tamales recipe is a wonderful blend of tradition, flavor, and texture. You’ll appreciate how the banana leaf wrapping infuses the tamales with a subtle, earthy aroma that sets them apart from other tamale varieties.

It’s an all-in-one meal packed with tender pork, vegetables, and a slightly sweet masa, offering a perfect balance of savory and mild sweetness. Making tamales from scratch is also a fun, hands-on experience that connects you to Costa Rican culinary heritage.

Moreover, this recipe is flexible—you can adjust the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying tamales for the first time, this recipe makes the process approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup pork broth (from cooking pork)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp achiote paste (for color and flavor)
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Banana leaves, cleaned and cut into 12×12 inch squares
• Kitchen twine or strips of banana leaf for tying
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking pork
• Mixing bowls
• Large spoon or wooden spatula
• Steamer or large pot with steaming rack
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Banana leaf scraper or brush (optional, for cleaning leaves)
• Kitchen twine or strips of banana leaf for wrapping tamales
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander, for rinsing vegetables

Instructions

1. Cook the pork: In a large pot, place the pork shoulder chunks with enough water to cover. Add salt, 2 garlic cloves, and half the onion. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pork is tender (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Reserve the broth for later use.
2. Prepare the filling: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the remaining garlic and onion until translucent. Add diced red bell peppers, carrots, and peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften.
3. Add spices and tomato sauce: Stir in achiote paste, ground cumin, oregano, and tomato sauce. Mix well, then add shredded cooked pork to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes to blend flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
4. Make the masa dough: In a large bowl, combine masa harina and cornmeal. Gradually add the pork broth (strained) and vegetable broth, mixing continuously. Add cooked rice. Knead until dough is soft and spreadable but not too sticky. Adjust liquid or masa harina as needed.
5. Prepare banana leaves: Soften banana leaves by passing them over an open flame or dipping briefly in hot water. This makes them pliable and easier to fold. Cut into 12×12 inch squares and wipe clean.
6. Assemble tamales: Place a banana leaf square on a clean surface. Spread about 3-4 tablespoons of masa dough in the center, forming a rectangle. Add 2 tablespoons of the pork and vegetable filling on top of the masa.
7. Fold and wrap: Fold the banana leaf over the filling to form a neat package. Fold sides to enclose completely. Tie securely with kitchen twine or strips of banana leaf.
8. Steam tamales: Arrange tamales upright in a steamer basket. Cover with a damp cloth or additional banana leaves. Steam over boiling water for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to replenish water and prevent drying out.
9. Serve: Carefully remove tamales from steamer. Let cool slightly before unwrapping and serving.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Soften banana leaves properly to avoid tearing during wrapping. If you can’t find banana leaves, parchment paper can be a substitute, though the flavor will slightly differ.

You can customize the filling by substituting pork with chicken, beef, or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version. For added richness, include olives or raisins in the filling, which is traditional in some Costa Rican tamale recipes.

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for a subtle warmth that complements the achiote’s earthiness. If you prefer a spicier tamale, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

For an even easier approach, prepare the masa dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight to develop flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Costa Rican tamales are traditionally served with a side of chayote salad or fresh pickled onions to add brightness. You can also enjoy them with a simple tomato salsa or a dollop of sour cream to balance the savory richness.

For a complete meal, serve with black beans and white rice, or pair with a light vegetable soup. These tamales also pair wonderfully with tropical fruit juices like guava or pineapple for an authentic Costa Rican dining experience.

If you love exploring Latin American dishes, you might enjoy other recipes like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food to complement your meal adventures.

Conclusion

Making Costa Rican tamales at home is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Central America. This recipe offers a perfect balance of hearty pork filling, fragrant masa dough, and the unique touch of banana leaves that make tamales so special.

Though the process requires some time and patience, the end result is well worth the effort—a comforting and flavorful dish that brings family and friends together.

Whether you’re preparing tamales for a festive occasion or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe invites you to experience the warmth and tradition of Costa Rica’s kitchen. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a light side or Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more inspiring dishes.

Enjoy your cooking journey and ¡buen provecho!

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