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!