Learn how to make authentic Mexican tamales with this traditional recipe, which includes masa dough, flavorful fillings, and the perfect way to wrap them in corn husks.
Ingredients
- 4 cups masa harina
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shortening or lard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 25 corn husks soaked in warm water
- 2 cups filling of choice such as shredded chicken or pork with sauce
Instructions
- Soak the corn husks in warm water for about an hour until soft.
- In a large bowl, beat the shortening or lard until fluffy. Add the masa harina, baking powder, and salt, and mix well.
- Gradually add the chicken broth to the masa mixture, and mix until the dough is smooth and spreadable.
- Take a softened corn husk and spread 2-3 tablespoons of the masa dough onto the center.
- Place your chosen filling in the center of the masa dough.
- Fold the sides of the corn husk in towards the center, then fold the bottom upwards.
- Repeat with remaining husks and dough.
- Place tamales upright in a steamer and steam for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking water level occasionally.
- Tamales are done when the masa easily pulls away from the husks.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 7gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg