Tamales: A Traditional Mexican Corn-Based Delight

Enjoy the authentic taste of Mexico with these delicious tamales! Made with masa (corn dough) and filled with savory or sweet fillings, tamales are a festive treat perfect for any occasion. Steamed to perfection, these tamales are soft, flavorful, and a true taste of Mexican tradition.



Recipe Details

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 tamales
Vegetarian: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Gluten-Free: Yes

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Protein: ~5 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~35 g
  • Fat: ~10 g
  • Fiber: ~4 g
  • Sugars: ~2 g

Ingredients

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  • 1/3 cup masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted lard
  • 1/3 tsp baking powder
  • 1/3 tsp salt
  • 2 tablespoons red or green chile sauce (optional)
  • 2 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water)
  • Filling of your choice (shredded chicken, pork, cheese, or beans)
  • 2/3 cup masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted lard
  • 2/3 tsp baking powder
  • 2/3 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup red or green chile sauce (optional)
  • 4 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water)
  • Filling of your choice (shredded chicken, pork, cheese, or beans)
  • 1 cup masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted lard
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup red or green chile sauce (optional)
  • 6 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water)
  • Filling of your choice (shredded chicken, pork, cheese, or beans)
  • 1 1/3 cups masa harina (corn flour)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted lard
  • 1 1/3 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/3 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup red or green chile sauce (optional)
  • 8 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water)
  • Filling of your choice (shredded chicken, pork, cheese, or beans)
  • 1 2/3 cups masa harina (corn flour)
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2/3 cup vegetable oil or melted lard
  • 1 2/3 tsp baking powder
  • 1 2/3 tsp salt
  • 2/3 cup red or green chile sauce (optional)
  • 10 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water)
  • Filling of your choice (shredded chicken, pork, cheese, or beans)

Instructions

  • Step 1
    Prepare the Masa
    In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the chicken broth and oil (or melted lard), kneading until the dough is soft and pliable.
  • Step 2
    Prepare the Corn Husks
    Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes. Once softened, drain and remove any silk.
  • Step 3
    Assemble the Tamales
    Spread a small amount of masa onto the center of each soaked corn husk. Add a spoonful of the filling of your choice and a little bit of chile sauce (if using).
  • Step 4
    Wrap the Tamales
    Fold the sides of the corn husk over the masa, then fold the bottom up. Secure the tamale by folding the top down.
  • Step 5
    Steam the Tamales
    Arrange the tamales upright in a large steamer, making sure they are tightly packed. Cover with a damp cloth and steam for 1-1.5 hours, or until the masa pulls away from the husk easily.
  • Step 6
    Serve
    Let the tamales cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite salsa or a side of Mexican crema!

Tips for Perfect Tamales

  • Test the Masa: If the masa feels too dry, add more broth. If it feels too wet, add more masa harina until it reaches the right consistency.
  • Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Popular options include shredded chicken, pork, cheese, or beans. Don't forget to add salsa or chile sauce for an extra kick.
  • Steaming Time: Make sure to steam the tamales long enough for the masa to cook through. Check by opening one tamale; if it comes off the husk easily, they’re done!

Tamales are a beloved Mexican dish that brings people together. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply as a special treat, they are sure to delight your taste buds!

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