How to Cook Salvadoran Tamales

Mexican food is a great way to unite a group. The culture in itself, brings about a fiesta, full of fun and celebration! The same holds true for making Salvadoran tamales. These tamales are made very similar to the standard tamale. The difference is that they are made with banana leaves. Banana leaves give tamales a richer and tastier flavor. Give this recipe a try and see if it won't get you into a fiesta celebration!

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 bag of banana leaves
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 can of tomato soup
• 2 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 tablespoon of pepper
• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• 1 can of whole kernel corn, drain
• 1/2 cup of chopped bell pepper
• frying pan
• baking string
• refried beans

Instructions

How to Cook Salvadoran Tamales

1. Pan fry ground beef and onion in skillet until lightly brown. Drain off excess grease.

2. Add tomato soup, water, seasonings, corn and green pepper. Simmer 15 minutes.

3. Place a portion of the meat mixture in banana leaves. Fold and secure by wrapping a baking string around the tamale.

4. Bake in preheated oven at 425 degrees, for approximately 20-25 minutes; until banana leaves are slightly brown around the edges.

5. Serve with re-fried beans or favorite Mexican side dish.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer a more creamier filling, a can of cream style corn can be substituted for the whole kernel corn.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish