How to Cook Tamales na Dulong

Tamales na Dulong is a delicate Ilocano dish made with tiny dulong fish wrapped in banana leaves and poached, offering a flavorful blend of fresh, earthy, and tangy notes.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Total Time40

Course: Fish Recipe

Cuisine: Filipino

Keyword: dulong fish, lacustrine goby, small fish cake, tamales na dulong

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 60kcal

Author: Manny

Ingredients

3 cups fresh dulong
2 tsp. ginger finely chopped
2 Tbsp. onion sliced
2 tsp. salt
2 cups water
2 Tbsp. calamansi juice
Banana leaves about 7 inches x 12 inches

Instructions

How to cook Tamales na Dulong

Mix the first four ingredients together.
Place 1/3 cup of the mixture on two layers of banana leaves.
Wrap in the form of a square and tie with a string.
Put wrapped tamales in pan and add two cups water.
Cover and boil 30 minutes over moderate heat.
Serve with calamansi juice. Good for 6 person.

Notes

Cooking Tips:

Use Fresh Banana Leaves for Best Flavor

When preparing Tamales na Dulong, opt for fresh banana leaves to wrap the mixture. Fresh leaves are more pliable, making it easier to fold them without tearing. Additionally, they impart a subtle, earthy aroma that enhances the overall flavor of the dish during steaming.

Tie the Wraps Securely

Ensure you tie the banana leaf wraps securely with kitchen string to prevent the mixture from leaking out during cooking. A loose wrap can cause the contents to spill into the water, diluting the flavor. A tightly sealed packet helps the tamales cook evenly and retain its shape.

Don't Overcook the Fish Mixture

While poaching, avoid overcooking the tamales, as it can make the dulong fish tough and dry. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 30 minutes for a tender, flavorful result. Overcooking may also cause the banana leaves to break apart, affecting presentation.