Master the Art of Mexican Tamales- A Step-by-Step Guide to Authentic Tamales Making

How to Make Mexican Tamales: A Traditional and Flavorful Dish

Mexican tamales are a beloved traditional dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made with masa (a corn dough), these steamed corn cakes are filled with a variety of ingredients, from savory meats and cheeses to sweet fruits and spices. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a taste of Mexican cuisine, learning how to make tamales is a rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making delicious Mexican tamales, from preparing the masa to filling and steaming them to perfection.

Ingredients for the Masa

To start, gather the following ingredients for the masa:

– 4 cups of masa harina (corn flour)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of lard or shortening (optional)

Ingredients for the Filling

Next, decide on the filling you’d like to use. Common options include:

– Chicken breast, shredded
– Pork shoulder, shredded
– Beef brisket, shredded
– Cheese, shredded
– Chorizo, diced
– Corn, diced
– Black beans, drained and rinsed
– Tomatoes, diced
– Onions, diced
– Cilantro, chopped
– Lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation of the Masa

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, vegetable oil, salt, and warm water.
2. Mix the ingredients together until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too sticky, add a little more masa harina.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Preparation of the Filling

1. Cook your chosen protein in a pot until fully cooked and tender. Shred or dice it as desired.
2. In a separate pan, sauté onions, tomatoes, and any other vegetables until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Combine the cooked protein, sautéed vegetables, and any additional fillings in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are combined.

Assembling the Tamales

1. Lightly oil a tamale steamer or a large pot with a steamer insert.
2. Take a small handful of masa and spread it evenly on the bottom of a corn husk, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the masa.
4. Fold the husk over the filling, tucking in the edges to create a tight seal.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining masa and filling until all the tamales are assembled.
6. Place the tamales in the steamer, making sure they are not touching each other.

Steaming the Tamales

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the tamale steamer inside.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and let the tamales steam for about 1 hour, or until the masa is firm and the filling is heated through.
3. Carefully remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican tamales can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro. They make a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or simply treating yourself to a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine. Happy cooking!