Food Facts
Venezuelan tamales are called "hallacas" and have one of the most flavorful and elaborate fillings of all the tamales of Latin America.
Cooking Know-How
If the banana leaves are split or difficult to handle, or if banana leaves are not available, prepare as directed substituting 10x6-inch sheets of parchment paper or foil for the banana leaves.
Food Facts
Banana leaves can be found fresh in Hispanic or Asian grocery stores or produce markets. They are also sometimes found frozen in larger supermarkets.