Belizean Tamalitos Recipe - How to Make Traditional Tamalitos

Ingredients

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock (homemade or low-sodium)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon annatto powder (achiote)
• 1/2 cup finely diced sweet bell pepper (red or yellow)
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (for garnish)
• Banana leaves or corn husks (for wrapping, soaked in hot water)