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Authentic Mexican Tamales

Name: Authentic Mexican Tamales
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Dried corn husks', 'amount': '20-30 husks'}; {'ingredient': 'Masa harina', 'amount': '4 cups'}; {'ingredient': 'Lard or vegetable shortening', 'amount': '1 cup'}; {'ingredient': 'Chicken or pork broth', 'amount': '3 cups'}; {'ingredient': 'Salt', 'amount': '1 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Ground cumin', 'amount': '1 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Chili powder', 'amount': '1 tablespoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Garlic powder', 'amount': '1 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Cooked shredded chicken or pork', 'amount': '2 cups'}; {'ingredient': 'Red or green salsa', 'amount': '1 cup'}; {'ingredient': 'Water', 'amount': 'as needed for masa consistency'}

Tamales are a cherished traditional Mexican dish with roots dating back to ancient civilizations. These delightful parcels are made from masa dough, filled with succulent meats, zesty salsas, and aromatic spices, all lovingly wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors, with a soft masa exterior encasing a savory, hearty filling. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or as a comforting meal, tamales bring the warmth and spirit of Mexico right to your kitchen. Whether you're enjoying them during a festive celebration or a cozy family dinner, tamales are sure to become a beloved dish in your home.

Servings: 12

Ingredients

Dried corn husks (20-30 husks)
Masa harina (4 cups)
Lard or vegetable shortening (1 cup)
Chicken or pork broth (3 cups)
Salt (1 teaspoon)
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
Chili powder (1 tablespoon)
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
Cooked shredded chicken or pork (2 cups)
Red or green salsa (1 cup)
Water (as needed for masa consistency)

Instructions

Soak the dried corn husks in warm water for about 1 hour, or until they become pliable. This will make them easier to work with.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, 3 cups of broth, lard or vegetable shortening, salt, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Mix well until a smooth and spreadable dough forms. If the dough is too dry, gradually add more water or broth until the desired consistency is achieved.
Spread a thin layer of the masa dough onto each soaked corn husk (about 1/4 inch thick), leaving a border of about 1 inch at the top and the sides.
Place a generous spoonful of cooked shredded chicken or pork in the center of the masa layer.
Top the meat filling with a spoonful of salsa for added flavor and moisture.
Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, then fold the bottom end up to secure the tamale. If needed, tie it with a strip of soaked corn husk or kitchen twine to keep it intact while steaming.
Repeat the process with the remaining corn husks and filling until all the masa and meat is used.
Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with water, ensuring that the water does not touch the tamales. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer basket, with the open end facing up.
Cover the pot with a lid and steam over medium heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the masa dough is firm and easily pulls away from the corn husks. Check the water level occasionally and add more as needed.
Once cooked, remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the tamales warm, with additional salsa on the side for dipping.

Dietary Information

Servings: 12 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 30 minutes • Cook Time: 2 hours • Calories: 250 • Fat: 12g • Carbs: 30g • Protein: 10g • Sodium: 300mg • Sugar: 1g

Authentic Mexican Tamales

Servings: 12

Ingredients

Instructions

Dietary Information

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