Panamanian Casserole-Style Tamale
Tamal de Olla is a traditional Panamanian dish that resembles tamales but is prepared in a pot. It consists of a savory mixture of cornmeal and various fillings, steamed to create a delicious, hearty meal.

Ingredients
For the Dough
- Cornmeal2cups
- chicken broth5cups
- vegetable oil6tbsp
- Salt and Pepper to taste
For the filling
- breast fillets3
- onion, chopped1
- sweet peppers, finely chopped3
- red pepper, thinly cut into julienne strips1
- green pepper, finely julienned1
- coriander leaves6
- garlic cloves, minced5
- Worcestershire sauce4tbsp
- stuffed olives, sliced1/2cup
- white wine1cup
- chopped capers2tbsp
- chicken broth1cup
- Olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
273.1kcal (13.66%)
Protein
3.0g (6.06%)
Carbs
16.9g (6.15%)
Sugars
2.6g (5.2%)
Healthy Fat
17.2g
Unhealthy Fat
3.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Panamanian Casserole-Style Tamale
Prepare the Dough
- Step 1
In a pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and cornmeal. Stir well.
- Step 2
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Step 3
Season with salt and pepper, remove from heat, and set aside.
Marinate the Chicken
- Step 1
Place the chicken breasts in a bowl.
- Step 2
Add half of the minced garlic, the Worcestershire sauce, and half of the white wine.
- Step 3
Mix well and let marinate for 1 hour.
Cook the Chicken
- Step 1
In a pan, heat some olive oil and sauté the marinated chicken until golden brown.
- Step 2
Remove the chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Filling
- Step 1
In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion, remaining garlic, sweet peppers, and julienned bell peppers.
- Step 2
Pour in the remaining white wine and chicken broth. Let the mixture come to a boil.
- Step 3
Add the sautéed chicken and coriander leaves
- Step 4
Simmer over medium-low heat until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Step 5
Remove the chicken from the sauce and shred it using two forks.
- Step 6
Return the shredded chicken to the pan and mix with the sauce. Add sliced olives and chopped capers.
- Step 7
Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Assemble the Casserole
- Step 1
In a large casserole dish or individual baking dishes, spread a layer of the cornmeal dough.
- Step 2
Add a layer of the chicken filling (avoid using too much sauce).
- Step 3
Top with another layer of cornmeal dough.
- Step 4
Optional: Gratin in the oven until lightly golden on top.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
273.1kcal (13.66%)
Protein
3.0g (6.06%)
Carbs
16.9g (6.15%)
Sugars
2.6g (5.2%)
Healthy Fat
17.2g
Unhealthy Fat
3.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Don't oversaturate with sauce. This keeps the layers from becoming soggy.
You can substitute the meat with vegetables for a vegetarian option.
FAQS
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the meat with mushrooms and bell peppers.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with Tamal de Olla?
Serve with a side of avocado slices or pickled vegetables.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the cornmeal dough can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Is this a good dish for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
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North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia