Easy Homemade Tamales: Step-by-Step Tamale Recipe for a Flavorful Delight

 

Here's the complete recipe for making tamales, followed by a brief description:

Complete Recipe for Tamales:

Ingredients:

# 2 cups (400g) masa harina (corn flour)

# 1 1/3 cups (320ml) chicken or vegetable broth

# 2/3 cup (160ml) vegetable shortening or lard

# 1 teaspoon baking powder

# 1/2 teaspoon salt

# 1 1/2 cups (360ml) prepared salsa or sauce (e.g., red chili sauce, green tomatillo sauce)

# 2 cups (400g) cooked and shredded meat (e.g., pork, chicken, beef) or beans for a vegetarian option

# 30-40 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for about 30 minutes

# Optional fillings and toppings: cheese, jalapeños, olives, etc.

Instructions:

01. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.

02. In a separate bowl, beat the vegetable shortening or lard until fluffy. Gradually add the masa harina mixture and chicken or vegetable broth. Mix until a smooth, spreadable dough forms. If the dough is too thick, add more broth as needed.

03. In another bowl, mix the shredded meat with your chosen salsa or sauce until well coated.

04. Drain the soaked corn husks and pat them dry with a clean towel.

05. Take one corn husk at a time and spread a thin layer of the prepared masa dough over the husk, leaving some space around the edges.

06. Spoon a portion of the seasoned meat and salsa filling into the center of the masa-covered husk.

07. Add any optional fillings, such as cheese, jalapeños, or olives, if desired.

08. Carefully fold the sides of the corn husk inward to enclose the filling and masa, then fold the bottom of the husk up.

09. Repeat the process for the remaining corn husks and filling.

10. To cook the tamales, you can use a steamer basket or a large pot with a steamer insert. Arrange the tamales vertically in the steamer, making sure they are standing up and not packed too tightly.

11. Add enough water to the pot, making sure it doesn't touch the tamales in the steamer. Cover the pot with a lid.

12. Steam the tamales over medium-high heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the masa is fully cooked and easily pulls away from the corn husks.

13. Remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Brief Description of Tamales:

Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made of masa dough, a mixture of corn flour and broth, spread on soaked corn husks. The dough is filled with seasoned meat or beans, often combined with a flavorful salsa or sauce. These delicious bundles are then carefully wrapped and steamed to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering blend of tender masa and savory filling, encased in the natural, earthy sweetness of the corn husks. Tamales can be served on their own or accompanied by a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. They are a labor of love to make, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings, bringing people together over a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.