Beef Tamales

Directions

1. 1
   Cook bacon in large skillet until crisp.
2. 2
   Remove bacon from skillet; drain on paper towels.
3. 3
   Discard drippings from skillet.
4. 4
   Chop half the onion.
5. 5
   Add to skillet along with the ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, cumin, cloves and 1 pkt.
6. 6
   seasoning; mix well.
7. 7
   Cook 10 to 12 min.
8. 8
   or until most the liquid is cooked off, stirring frequently.
9. 9
   Meanwhile, stir remaining seasoning pkt.
10. 10
    into chicken broth; gradually add to cornmeal in large bowl, stirring constantly until mixture forms soft dough.
11. 11
    Cover until ready to use.
12. 12
    Slice remaining onion half.
13. 13
    Place banana leaves in single layer on work surface.
14. 14
    Spread about 1/3 cup dough mixture into 6x4-inch rectangle on each leaf; top with ground beef mixture, onion slices, pepper slices, olives, capers, prunes and bacon slices.
15. 15
    Fold over both long sides of each leaf, then fold over both remaining ends to completely enclose filling.
16. 16
    Wrap each tamale tightly in heavy-duty foil.
17. 17
    Bring 5 qt.
18. 18
    water to boil in 8-qt.
19. 19
    stockpot or tamalera.
20. 20
    Add tamales; cover.
21. 21
    Cook on medium-low heat 30 to 40 min.
22. 22
    or until cooked through.
23. 23
    Remove tamales from water with tongs; drain.
24. 24
    Cool 10 min.
25. 25
    Top with cheese before serving.