Tamales Recipe

Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of masa dough filled with various ingredients and then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. They are a labor-intensive dish to make, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here is a detailed recipe for making tamales:

Tamales Recipe

Ingredients:

For the masa dough:

1. - 4 cups masa harina (corn flour)

2. - 2 cups chicken broth

3. - 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening

4. - 1 tsp baking powder

5. - 1 tsp salt

For the filling:

1. - 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks

2. - 1 onion, chopped

3. - 2 cloves garlic, minced

4. - 1 tsp cumin

5. - 1 tsp chili powder

6. - Salt and pepper to taste

7. - 2 cups water

For assembling the tamales:

1. - Dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes

2. - Filling (cooked pork mixture)

3. - Masa dough

4. - Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, until the pork is tender and can easily be shredded with a fork.

2. Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, chicken broth, lard or vegetable shortening, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.

4. To assemble the tamales, take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of masa dough on it, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top and sides.

5. Spoon some of the shredded pork onto the masa dough, then fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling to enclose it. Fold the bottom of the corn husk up to seal the tamale.

6. Repeat this process with the remaining corn husks, masa dough, and filling.

7. Arrange the tamales in a steamer basket, making sure they are standing upright and not packed too tightly.

8. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water, making sure it doesn't touch the tamales. Cover the steamer and steam the tamales for 1-2 hours, or until the masa dough is cooked through and firm.

9. Serve the tamales hot, topped with salsa or hot sauce if desired.

Making tamales is a labor of love, but the delicious flavors and aromas that come from this traditional Mexican dish make it all worth it. Enjoy your homemade tamales with friends and family, and savor the taste of a dish that has been passed down through generations.

Hello! We are eager to know what you think about this recipe. Have you tried it? How did it come out? Feel free to share any comments, thoughts, or suggestions you may have. Your feedback is greatly appreciated by us.