Best Easy Tamales de Bola Recipe

Round ball-shaped tamales from Chiapas, filled with meat and wrapped in banana leaves. These protein-rich family tamales showcase a unique regional shape and steaming technique.

Cook 150 min Difficulty NORMAL 370 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • masa harina 2.5 cups
  • chicken thigh, cooked and shredded 12 oz
  • pork shoulder, cooked and shredded 8 oz
  • lard 1 cup
  • chicken broth 1.5 cups
  • banana leaves 6 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • garlic cloves, minced 3 cloves
  • white onion, chopped 0.5 cup
  • dried guajillo chili, seeded 2 pieces
  • dried cumin 1 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 42 g 45%
Protein 17 g 18%
Fat 14 g 37%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak banana leaves in warm water for 20 minutes, then pat dry and cut into large squares for wrapping.

  2. 2

    In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic with a drizzle of lard for 3 minutes. Add guajillo chilis and toast until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Transfer the onion, garlic, and chilies to a blender; add chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Mix half of this sauce with the shredded chicken and pork.

  4. 4

    In a large bowl, combine masa harina with lard and remaining sauce. Gradually add chicken broth and knead until a pliable dough forms; adjust with extra liquid for softness.

  5. 5

    Divide masa dough into 6 equal portions. Flatten each portion by hand, fill the center with a generous spoonful of the meat mixture, and seal to form round balls.

  6. 6

    Wrap each masa ball tightly with a banana leaf square, tucking in the ends to secure. Tie with kitchen twine if needed for security.

  7. 7

    Arrange wrapped tamales upright in a large steamer fitted with a rack. Add water below rack and steam over medium-high heat for 2.5 hours, checking water level halfway through.

  8. 8

    Let the tamales rest for 15 minutes off heat before unwrapping and serving for the best texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Tamales de Bola Recipe?
The defining ingredient is masa harina (fine corn flour), which forms the classic tamale dough. Along with flavorful shredded chicken and pork, this combination creates the dish's signature hearty texture and authentic taste.
Q. What is the most important cooking step for perfect tamales de bola?
Steaming the wrapped masa balls over medium-high heat for 2.5 hours is crucial. Maintaining a consistent steam allows the dough to cook through without drying out, ensuring the tamales are moist and fully set.
Q. How can I ensure my tamales keep their round shape and don't fall apart during cooking?
Carefully sealing the masa balls and wrapping them securely with banana leaves prevents splitting or loss of shape. Placing the tamales upright in the steamer and not overcrowding them helps maintain their structure throughout cooking.
Q. How many calories and protein are there per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 370 kcal and 17g of protein, making these tamales a notably protein-rich and balanced option due to their generous meat filling.
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