Pork Tamales are a beloved Mexican dish, traditionally made for special occasions or family gatherings. These savory tamales are filled with tender, slow-cooked pork that’s seasoned with a rich blend of spices, and then wrapped in a soft masa dough. Steamed to perfection, they are both hearty and flavorful, offering a satisfying meal that has been enjoyed for generations.
To make the tamales, start by cooking the pork with ingredients like garlic, onion, and dried chilies, such as ancho or guajillo, which give the meat a smoky, deep flavor. Once the pork is cooked, shred it into small pieces, and mix it with a flavorful sauce made from the cooking liquid and the chilies. This creates a juicy, tender filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Next, prepare the masa dough by mixing masa harina (corn flour), baking powder, salt, and vegetable shortening or lard until it reaches a smooth, pliable consistency. This dough is then spread onto corn husks (which have been soaked in water to soften them), and a spoonful of the seasoned pork filling is added to the center. The tamales are then carefully folded and wrapped, ready for steaming.
Steam the tamales for about 1.5 to 2 hours, ensuring they are fully cooked through and the masa is soft. The result is a Pork Tamale that’s rich, flavorful, and has the perfect balance of spicy and savory notes.
Serve your tamales with a side of salsa verde or sour cream for an added burst of flavor. Pork tamales can be enjoyed on their own, or as part of a larger Mexican feast. Whether served for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or a casual family gathering, Pork Tamales are a heartwarming dish that always bring a smile to the table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder boneless, cut into cubes
- 30 pieces corn husks soaked in warm water
- 4 cups masa harina for tamales
- 1 cup vegetable shortening or lard
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
Instructions
- Place the pork in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the meat is tender, about 1 hour.
- Remove the pork from the pot and shred the meat using two forks.
- Prepare the masa by beating the vegetable shortening until fluffy. Add the masa harina, baking powder, and gradually mix in the chicken broth until smooth.
- Mix the shredded pork with chili powder and season with salt to taste.
- Spread a thin layer of masa on each corn husk, add a spoonful of pork in the center, roll up the husk carefully, folding the bottom end.
- Place assembled tamales upright in a steamer. Steam for about 90 minutes, until the masa separates easily from the husk.
Nutrition
I tried making these but they turned out too dry. What did I do wrong?
Tamales are hard to make! It took me forever to roll them and they all fell apart. Maybe I’m just not cut out for this.
I don’t understand why we make them like this? Seems easier to just make a pork burrito!
I followed the recipe exactly, but my masa didn’t rise like I expected. Any tips?
Maybe you didn’t whip the shortening enough? It should be really fluffy for the masa to rise properly. Also, did you use fresh baking powder? Old baking powder might not work well.
I dunno, I always just use the masa as it is, no rising for me! But if you followed it right, maybe try adding more baking powder next time?
Yum! The chili powder gave them a nice kick! I might even try adding cheese next time.
Why do you have to soak corn husks? Seems unnecessary. I just used parchment paper.
These tamales are the best! My family loved them. Will definitely make again.
So glad to hear that! Tamales are a family favorite for sure. 👍
These are the best tamales I’ve ever made! The pork turned out so tender, it was a hit at the family dinner.
Super good! Love these tamales, will make again for sure. My grandma would be proud.
So good! Tasted just like my abuela used to make.
LOL, it took me 90 minutes to steam them, but I was too hungry to wait! Totally worth it though!
90 minutes? That’s a long time! But if it was worth it, then great! I just microwave mine, haha.
Could’ve used more flavor, maybe add some more spices or something. They were a bit bland.
Great recipe, but I think the pork needs to be marinated for more flavor. Next time I’ll try that!
I agree, marinating would be a great idea! It can really enhance the flavors. Can’t wait to see how your tamales turn out next time!
I dunno, I think the recipe is just fine without marinating. It’s pretty flavorful as is. Maybe you should try it without first!
I think I did something wrong because mine came out dry. The pork was kinda tough. Anyone else have this issue?
Wow, 90 minutes? My grandma took forever to steam them! Love this recipe!
Pork? Really? I thought tamales were supposed to be vegitarian. Guess I’m wrong.
Pork is the best! If you want vegitarian, just make a different kind. No need to be upset!
Actually, tamales can be made with a variety of fillings, including pork. There are also vegetarian options! It depends on the recipe.
Uh, I don’t get why you have to soak the corn husks? Why not just use them dry?
They were decent but I was expecting more flavor. Needs more chili powder, maybe?
Made these for a party, they disappeared in minutes. Everyone was fighting for the last one!
Sounds awesome! Can’t wait to try it out myself. How spicy is the chili powder you used?
I didn’t have lard, so I used butter. Not sure how that’s gonna turn out, lol.
Quick question, can I use tortilla instead of corn husks? Asking for a friend. 😂
Yummm tamales! Perfect for a family gathering. I used leftover chicken instead of pork, still turned out great!
I don’t know why people rave about tamales. They seem too complicated. I might just stick to tacos.
These tamales are absolutely delicious! I made them for my family and they couldn’t get enough! So flavorful!
Really? I found them a bit bland when I made them. Maybe I didn’t add enough seasoning? 🤔
I’m so glad to hear that! These tamales are a family favorite in my house too! Did you add any hot sauce to yours?
Simple and delicious! Took me back to my grandma’s kitchen. Thanks for this recipe!
I’ve never tried making tamales before, but this recipe was way too complicated. Who has time to steam for 90 minutes?!
Yum! Just like my abuela used to make! Tamales bring back all the good feels!
Super good! But next time I’ll add more chili powder. Also, don’t forget to soak them husks real good.
These tamales are amazing! The pork is so tender and flavorful. Can’t wait to make them again!
Wow, I didn’t think tamales could be made this way. Aren’t they usually boiled?
Totally agree! These are the best tamales! My family loved them too!
I struggled with the masa part, mine turned out too dry. Any tips?
So good! A bit spicy for my taste but still really good. Must try again but with less chili!