Tamales Recipe | Perfectly Steamed and Stuffed

Learn how to make traditional Mexican Tamales with our step-by-step recipe. This guide will walk you through the process of making the perfect masa dough and filling it with your favorite ingredients.

Tamales are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are enjoyed year-round, but they are especially popular during the holidays. Making tamales can seem intimidating, but with the right recipe and a little patience, you can have perfectly steamed and stuffed tamales in no time.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups filling of your choice (shredded chicken, beef, cheese, vegetables, etc.)
• Corn husks

Preparation:

1. Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes to soften.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the masa harina, lard or vegetable shortening, baking powder, and salt.
3. Slowly add in the broth and mix until the dough comes together and is smooth.
4. Spread a spoonful of the masa mixture onto each corn husk, leaving a 1-inch border at the top and bottom.
5. Place a spoonful of your desired filling in the center of the masa mixture.
6. Roll the corn husk up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
7. Repeat with the remaining ingredients until you have made all of your tamales.

Cooking:

1. Fill a large pot with a steaming basket and enough water to reach just below the bottom of the basket.
2. Arrange the tamales upright in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for 30-40 minutes, or until the masa is cooked through.

Tips and Tricks:

• To test if the masa is cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center of a tamale. If it comes out clean, the tamale is fully cooked.
• To ensure that the tamales don’t stick to the husks, make sure to soak the husks for long enough and use enough masa mixture.

Variants:

• You can use different types of fillings to suit your tastes, such as cheese and chilies, shredded beef, or even sweet fillings like fruit and cinnamon.

Tamales are a traditional and delicious dish that can bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or as an appetizer, your guests are sure to love them. With this recipe and a little practice, you’ll be making tamales like a pro in no time!