With the arrival of December, tamales become a common dish in Costa Rican households. They even are even a popular gift among families. But Costa Ricans eat them in breakfast, lunch and dinner. Is this healthy?
Nutritionist Karen Acuna explains that a tamale is a complete meal and the recommendation from specialists to maintain a balanced diet is to eat up to 2 or 3 per week.
And, to enjoy a tamale without feeling guilty, we must take into account the size and frequency with which they are consumed. Acuña also suggests making small changes to cook healthier tamales.
– Use vegetable oil. The tradition is to use lard. However, nutrition experts recommend using vegetable oil or butter.
– Vary the type of meat. Another option is to change the meat and look for less fatty poultry. Possibilities such as chicken and beef are preferable before pork.
– Cool the broth used to marinate the dough to remove visible fat and make it much healthier.
A tamale is a type of complete meal, whit carbohydrates, protein and vegetables are incorporated, but you cannot forget that it is a main dish that you have to try to balance with other dishes in your day,”
concluded Acuña.