Guatemalan Food – What Is It, History & 8 Traditional Dishes

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber, while cornmeal is more affordable.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: canned chicken

Turkey is leaner, and canned chicken is budget-friendly.

pork

🥗Healthier: lean beef

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Lean beef is healthier, while chicken thighs are often cheaper.

banana leaves

🥗Healthier: parchment paper

💰Cheaper: aluminum foil

Parchment paper is healthier, and foil is more accessible.

Soak corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes.

In a bowl, mix masa harina, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add water to the dry mixture until a dough forms.

Spread a portion of the dough onto a soaked corn husk.

Add your choice of filling in the center of the dough.

Fold the sides of the husk over the filling and then fold the bottom up.

Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot.

Steam for about 1 to 1.5 hours, adding water as needed.

Check for doneness; the masa should be firm and pull away from the husk easily.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary