Tamales are one of the many foods people assume are only Mexican, and that they’re the same everywhere. While Mexico has its version of tamales, the Costa Rica tamal is a little different.
Here’s the scoop on this wonderfully delicious Costa Rican comfort food.
Tamales at Christmas
If you are ever lucky enough to be in Costa Rica at Christmastime, you may have tried a Costa Rican tamale–or tamal in Spanish.
Tamales are a traditional Christmas dish and they’re simply out-of-this-world good.
Tamal making is a BIG DEAL, and it’s something everybody in the family takes part in. There’s a lot of prep to making tamales, so everyone gets a job.
Made from corn masa (think polenta) the tamal is formed into a patty. Then pork, carrot, peas, a green bean and red pepper are pressed onto the surface of the tamal. Then, it’s wrapped in a banana leaf, tied, and piled in a large stock pot where the tamales will cook (steam) over an open fire in the yard or patio.
Tamales are tender, with a hint of smokiness from the pork. They’re eaten throughout the holiday season, often for breakfast with coffee. They’re one of the foods that taste even better the day after.
Most families have their own recipe, but that’s the basic idea.
So Why a Banana Leaf?
Corn husks are associated more with Mexican tamales, even though they use banana leaves in parts of Mexico, too. In my region here in upstate New York, there are a lot of Mexican restaurants, but no Latin American or Costa Rican eateries. So naturally people see the corn husk instead of the banana leaves.
Banana leaves are readily available throughout Costa Rica. They also steam well and make a very moist and delicious tamal.
Plus, they look pretty cool on your plate. And, you get to open it up just like a little gift.
Tamales–Not Just for Christmas Anymore
I’ve been lucky enough to snag a tamal here and there outside the Christmas holiday season. They’re sometimes served at celebrations and gatherings. It’s always an unexpected treat.
Many hotels now serve tamales year-round, so if you get a chance to try one, enjoy it! They’re a delicious slice of Costa Rican tradition!