Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCafé CuscoVegan Tamal Recipe

Vegan Tamal Recipe

Inspired by Café Cusco
Time1h 30m
Serves6

Large white corn and peanut masa tamale steamed in a banana leaf topped with sautéed peppers, onions & pico de gallo

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Vegan Tamal Ingredients

Method

Preparation Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Masa

    In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, water, peanut butter, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. The dough should be moist but not sticky. Adjust with more water if necessary.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Filling

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add sliced bell peppers and cook until tender. Season with salt and set aside.

  3. 3

    Wrap the Tamales

    Cut banana leaves into rectangles (about 10x12 inches). Place a large spoonful of masa dough in the center of each banana leaf, flatten it slightly, and add a spoonful of sautéed peppers and onions. Fold the sides of the banana leaf over the filling and then fold the ends to seal.

  4. 4

    Steam the Tamales

    Place a steamer basket over boiling water and arrange the tamales upright in the basket. Cover with additional banana leaves or a damp cloth. Steam for about 1 hour or until the masa easily pulls away from the banana leaf.

  5. 5

    Serve

    Remove tamales from the steamer and let them cool slightly. Serve topped with pico de gallo.

More from Café Cusco