How to make tasty traditional tamales

Step 1 : To prepare this exquisite recipe, start by blending the onion, peppers, garlic, and cilantro with 2 cups of water.

Step 2 : The next step is to season the meat with a little of this mixture and season to taste.

Step 3 : Then, cook the meat in a saucepan with water, making sure not to overcook, until tender but still juicy; then, remove and set aside.

Step 4 : In a separate bowl, place the corn flour, season to taste, and add some of the prepared blend, gradually adding water until a smooth dough is achieved.

Step 5 : Reserve some of this dough for the filling.

Step 6 : In that separate portion, add the rest of the blend, season, incorporate the achiote powder, and mix until achieving an intense and uniform color.

Step 7 : In a large saucepan, melt the pork fat and add the remaining white dough, stirring constantly to prevent sticking; if it hardens, add more fat until reaching a smooth consistency.

Step 8 : In another saucepan, repeat the process with the filling dough, using less fat.

Step 9 : Stir until a smooth dough forms, then reserve and let cool.

Step 10 : Next, place the chícharos and olives in a bowl.

Step 11 : Cut squares of aluminum foil and banana leaves of the same size.

Step 12 : Place a banana leaf on top of a sheet of aluminum foil, and at one edge, put a large spoonful of white dough, followed by pork, a spoonful of rice, 2 olives, 2 chícharos, potatoes, and finally, a spoonful of the filling.

Step 13 : Wrap, gathering the ends and folding, then place the tamales in a pot, one on top of the other.

Step 14 : Continue this process until all ingredients are used.

Step 15 : Cover the tamales in the pot with banana leaves, add water up to half the pot, and cook for 4 hours.

Step 16 : It's important to add more hot water during cooking to prevent it from drying out.

Step 17 : Finally, remove the tamales and serve with lemon.