Homemade Tamales Recipe | Easy & Flavorful

Tamales, the beloved traditional Mexican dish, are a delightfully flavorful and satisfying meal. Made with a corn-based dough and filled with various meats or beans and cheese, tamales are wrapped and cooked in corn husks or banana leaves, infusing them with an irresistible aroma and taste. If you’ve always wanted to learn how to make authentic tamales at home, you’ve come to the right place.

In this homemade tamales recipe, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating these delectable treats. We will use simple ingredients like masa harina, broth, baking powder, salt, cumin, lard (or shortening), and dried corn husks. The filling options are endless, but for today, we’ll explore three classics: salsa verde chicken, bean and cheese, and red chili pork.

Key Takeaways:

• Homemade tamales are a traditional Mexican dish that is both easy and flavorful.
• The recipe uses simple ingredients like masa harina, broth, baking powder, salt, cumin, lard (or shortening), and dried corn husks.
• The filling options include salsa verde chicken, bean and cheese, and red chili pork.
• Soak the corn husks, prepare the desired filling, make the masa dough, assemble the tamales, and cook them on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot.
• Tying the tamales is optional but can be helpful in differentiating between fillings.

With this homemade tamales recipe, you’ll discover the joy of recreating the authentic flavors of Mexico right in your own kitchen. Serve your tamales with pico de gallo, guacamole, rice, or any other toppings or sides of your choice. So, let’s get started and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the richness of traditional tamales!

What Are Tamales?

Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. They are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are beloved for their rich flavors and unique cooking method. Tamales consist of a corn-based dough, known as masa, that is filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, beans, and cheese. The masa dough and filling are then wrapped in corn husks, which not only adds a beautiful presentation but also imparts a subtle corn flavor to the tamale.

The tradition of making tamales is often passed down through generations, with families coming together to create these delicious treats during special occasions and holidays. Tamales are known for their versatility, as they can be filled with a wide range of ingredients to suit different preferences. Popular fillings include salsa verde chicken, bean and cheese, and red chili pork.

Once assembled, the tamales are cooked by steaming, which results in a tender and moist texture. This cooking method ensures that the flavors of the filling infuse the masa dough, creating a harmonious blend of tastes in each bite.

Tamales are typically served with pico de gallo and guacamole, which add freshness and tanginess to complement the rich flavors of the tamale. A side of rice often accompanies the dish, providing a satisfying and balanced meal.

The process of making tamales may seem labor-intensive at first, but it is a rewarding and enjoyable culinary experience. It can be made even more fun by involving family and friends in the preparation, creating cherished memories and traditions.

So, whether you’re a fan of traditional Mexican cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavors, tamales are a must-try dish that will transport you to the vibrant and diverse culinary world of Mexico.

Ingredients and Step-by-Step Instructions

When it comes to making homemade tamales, it’s important to have the right ingredients and follow a step-by-step process. Here’s everything you need to know:

Tamales Ingredients

To make delicious tamales, gather the following ingredients:

Make sure to soak the corn husks in hot water for 30 minutes or until softened before using them.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make mouthwatering homemade tamales:

1. Soak the corn husks: Place the dried corn husks in a bowl or a large pot and cover them with hot water. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes or until they become pliable and easy to work with.
2. Prepare the filling: Choose your desired filling, whether it’s salsa verde chicken, bean and cheese, or red chili pork. Cook the filling ingredients and set them aside for later use.
3. Make the masa dough: In a mixing bowl, beat the lard or shortening until fluffy. In a separate bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, salt, and cumin. Gradually add the masa flour mixture and broth to the beaten lard while continuously mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Assemble the tamales: Take a soaked corn husk and pat it dry. Spread a thin layer of masa dough on the husk, leaving about 1/4 inch from the edges. Place a spoonful of the desired filling in the center of the dough. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom of the husk up to enclose the tamale. You can use corn husk strings to tie the tamales if desired.
5. Cooking on stove-top or Instant Pot: To cook the tamales, you can either steam them on the stove-top or use the Instant Pot. If using the stove-top, place the tamales upright in a steamer pot and steam for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the masa is firm and cooked through. If using the Instant Pot, place a trivet inside the pot, add water, and then stack the tamales on top. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes before opening the pot.
6. Freezing and reheating instructions: If you have leftover tamales or want to make them in advance, let them cool completely before freezing. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bags and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, steam the tamales from frozen for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade tamales! Serve them with pico de gallo, guacamole, rice, or any other toppings or sides of your choice.

Conclusion

Making homemade tamales is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the authentic flavors of this traditional Mexican dish right in your own home. With a simple recipe and step-by-step instructions, you can create delicious and flavorful tamales filled with your favorite meats, beans, and cheese.

Whether you choose to cook them on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot, the result will be a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Soak the corn husks, prepare the filling and masa dough, assemble the tamales, and cook them until they are tender and full of flavor. Don’t be intimidated by the process, as it is actually quite simple and can be a fun activity to do with others.

Enjoy the joy of homemade tamales and savor the rich, traditional flavors that they provide.

Source Links

• https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/mexican-tamales/
• https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/34512/real-homemade-tamales/
• https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/how-to-make-tamales/