How to cook tamales step by step easily

Tamales are a traditional dish in many Latin American cultures, with a unique flavor and texture that make them a delight enjoyed on various occasions. Cooking them might seem like a challenge, but with the right steps, anyone can achieve it. This article clearly and simply details how to cook tamales, allowing you to enjoy this specialty in the comfort of your home.

Necessary Ingredients for Cooking Tamales

To start, it is essential to have all the ingredients on hand. Tamales generally consist of masa (corn dough), but you can customize them with different fillings. Below are the basic ingredients:

Masa for Tamales

• 2 cups of masa harina
• 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup of vegetable shortening or butter
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• Salt to taste

Filling

Fillings can vary according to your preferences, but some examples include:

• Shredded chicken
• Pork
• Refried beans
• Peppers and cheeses

Corn Husks

• A package of dried corn husks (which should be soaked in hot water before use).

Preparation of the Masa

1. Soak the Corn Husks: Place the dried corn husks in hot water and let them sit for about 30 minutes to soften. Then, drain and dry them.

2. Prepare the Masa: In a large bowl, beat the shortening until it is soft and creamy. Gradually add the masa harina, chicken or vegetable broth, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous masa that feels light and fluffy.

Assembly of the Tamales

1. Take a Corn Husk: Take a soaked corn husk and place it on a flat surface.

2. Add the Masa: Using a spoon, place approximately 2 tablespoons of masa in the center of the husk. Spread it evenly, leaving space at the edges.

3. Add the Filling: Place a tablespoon of your chosen filling in the center of the masa.

4. Close the Tamal: Fold the sides of the husk towards the center, covering the filling, and then fold the bottom part up to seal the tamal. Repeat the process with the remaining husks and masa.

Cooking the Tamales

1. Prepare the Steamer: Fill a large pot with water and place a steamer rack at the bottom. If you don’t have a rack, place an inverted plate.

2. Place the Tamales: Stand the tamales upright in the pot, ensuring the open end is facing up. If necessary, you can place some masa balls to keep them upright.

3. Cook: Cover the pot and heat it over medium heat. Cook the tamales for 1 to 1.5 hours, checking periodically to ensure the water doesn’t completely evaporate. The tamales will be ready when the masa easily pulls away from the husk.

Serving and Storage

Once cooked, remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool. They can be served warm with salsa, cream, or guacamole. If there are leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Tamales are a versatile and delicious dish that you can share with friends and family. If you want to discover more recipes and culinary techniques, I invite you to read more articles like this on my blog.