Mexican Tamales

Learn how to make Mexican Tamales at home with these simple step-by-step instructions. These authentic tamales are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. The combination of tender, seasoned beef and fluffy masa dough wrapped in corn husks creates an unforgettable experience. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this traditional dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of homemade tamales that transport you straight to Mexico.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Make a large batch to share at parties, holidays, or family dinners.
• Customizable Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different meats or vegetarian options for variety.
• Fun Activity: Involve friends or family in the preparation process for a fun cooking experience together.
• Freezes Well: Store extras in the freezer for quick meals on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making delicious Mexican tamales, gather your tools and get prepared for a fun cooking session.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Dutch oven or large pot
• Blender
• Steamer pot
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth chile sauce that enhances the tamale filling.
• Dutch Oven: Perfect for browning meat evenly and simmering it until tender.
• Steamer Pot: Ensures even cooking of the tamales while keeping them moist and flavorful.

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Ingredients

Learn how to make tamales at home with these simple step-by-step instructions. These authentic Mexican tamales are filled with a red chile beef wrapped in a fluffy masa dough.

For the Chile Sauce

• 3 ounces guajillo chiles, (rinsed, stemmed, and seeded)
• 3 ounces ancho chiles, (rinsed, stemmed, and seeded)
• Water, (as needed)
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 3 teaspoons kosher salt, (divided)
• ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Beef Filling

• 2 ½ pounds boneless beef shoulder, (cut into large 4-inch chunks)
• 1 bay leaf

For the Masa Dough

• 8 ¼ cups masa harina, (about half of a 4.4 lb bag of Maseca)
• 1 ¾ tablespoons fine salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 ¾ cups canola or avocado oil
• 7 cups broth, (chicken, beef, or vegetable, plus more as needed)

For Assembly

• 50 corn husks, (about ½-¾ pound bag)
• Hot water, (as needed)

How to Make Mexican Tamales

Step 1: Prep the Corn Husks

Add the corn husks to a large bowl or pot. Pour enough hot water over them to cover completely. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and let soak for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Chile Sauce

Add guajillo chiles and ancho chiles to a medium pot filled with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat. Remove from heat, cover, and let soak for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Blend the Chile Sauce

Using a slotted spoon, transfer softened chiles to a blender. Add 1 cup of chile-soaked water, fresh water, garlic powder, 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, and ground cumin. Blend until smooth. If necessary, strain through a fine mesh strainer.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season beef with remaining kosher salt and sear in batches until browned on all sides.

Step 5: Simmer the Beef Filling

Return seared meat to the pot. Pour in blended red chile sauce and add bay leaf. Bring to boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2½ hours until meat is tender.

Step 6: Make the Masa Dough

In a large mixing bowl or pot, combine masa harina, fine salt, and baking powder. Stir well.

Step 7: Mix the Masa Dough

Add oil and mix using your hands until crumbly yet holds shape when pressed together.

Step 8: Combine with Broth

Stir in broth gradually until dough is wet but spreadable like thick hummus.

Step 9: Finalize Corn Husk Prep

Drain corn husks and pat dry; lay flat on a baking sheet for easy access.

Step 10: Spread Masa on Corn Husks

Identify smooth side of each husk. Place smooth side up on your palm or plate. Add heaping spoonful of masa in center; spread thinly leaving top third empty.

Step 11: Add Filling

Place spoonful of beef filling down center of masa; avoid overstuffing.

Step 12: Fold Tamales

Fold long edges like closing a book; then fold pointy end up leaving one end open. Set aside while assembling more tamales.

Step 13: Prepare Steamer Pot

Fill bottom of steamer pot with water; add penny/coin at bottom then insert steamer basket. Arrange tamales upright with open ends facing up.

Step 14: Steam Tamales

Cover tightly; bring water to boil over high heat until coin rattles! Reduce heat to medium-low; steam for about 2½ hours until masa is cooked through.

Step 15: Check Doneness

Remove one tamal; let sit for ten minutes. If husk peels away easily from masa it’s done! If still gooey, steam longer as needed.

Step 16: Serve Tamales

Remove from pot; cool for ten minutes before serving so they firm up slightly for easier unwrapping.

Enjoy your homemade Mexican Tamales, bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Mexican Tamales

Serving Mexican tamales can be a delightful experience that brings family and friends together. They are tasty on their own but can be enhanced with various accompaniments.

With Salsa Verde

• Fresh salsa verde adds a zesty kick that complements the rich flavors of the tamales.

Drizzled with Crema

• A drizzle of crema adds creaminess, balancing out the spiciness of the red chile beef filling.

Topped with Queso Fresco

• Crumbled queso fresco provides a salty contrast, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

Served with Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy pickled vegetables offer acidity, which cuts through the richness of the tamales.

Accompanied by Refried Beans

• Creamy refried beans make for a hearty side that pairs well with tamales, adding protein and flavor.

How to Perfect Mexican Tamales

Making perfect Mexican tamales takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your tamale-making skills.

• Use fresh masa harina – Fresh masa harina will yield a lighter, fluffier dough compared to older flour.
• Soak corn husks properly – Ensure the corn husks are soaked long enough to become pliable, making them easier to wrap.
• Don’t overfill – Avoid overstuffing the tamales; it can cause them to burst during cooking.
• Test for doneness – Always check one tamal for doneness before serving; it should peel away easily from the husk.
• Steam efficiently – Keep your steamer pot covered tightly; this helps retain moisture and ensures thorough cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Tamales

Pairing your Mexican tamales with the right side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a filling side dish that complements the flavors of tamales.

2. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado mixed with cilantro and lime provides a refreshing contrast to spicy tamales.

3. Corn Salad
   A bright salad made of corn, bell peppers, and lime offers sweetness and crunch alongside savory tamales.

4. Chiles Rellenos
   Stuffed peppers add an extra layer of flavor and spice that pairs beautifully with tamales.

5. Black Beans
   Seasoned black beans provide protein and richness, making them a hearty complement to your meal.

6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
   Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, and spices adds smokiness and creaminess alongside your tamales.

7. Sautéed Greens
   Lightly sautéed greens like spinach or kale add a nutritious touch while balancing out rich flavors.

8. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh pico de gallo made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice offers brightness and freshness that enhance every bite of tamale.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican tamales can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not soaking corn husks properly: Skipping the soaking step can lead to dry and difficult-to-fold husks. Always soak them for at least 1 hour in hot water before using.
• Overstuffing tamales: Adding too much filling can cause your tamales to burst open while cooking. Use only 1-2 tablespoons of filling to keep them intact.
• Inconsistent masa dough: If the masa dough is too dry or wet, it won’t hold together well. Ensure it’s soft and spreadable like thick hummus, adjusting with broth or masa harina as needed.
• Ignoring cooking time: Undercooking or overcooking can ruin your tamales. Always check for doneness by ensuring the masa pulls away easily from the husk after steaming.
• Not using enough broth in filling: A dry filling makes for bland tamales. Ensure your meat is tender and well-seasoned with enough sauce for moisture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked tamales in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They can last up to 5 days.

Freezing Mexican Tamales

• Wrap each tamal tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Tamales

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tamales in foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a damp paper towel over a tamal and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per tamal until heated.
• Stovetop: Add a few inches of water to a pot, place a steaming rack inside, and steam tamales on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mexican Tamales?

Mexican tamales are traditional dishes made of masa dough filled with various ingredients, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed until cooked.

Can I use different fillings for Mexican Tamales?

Absolutely! You can customize your Mexican tamales by using chicken, turkey, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruits and chocolate.

How do I know when my Mexican Tamales are done?

Your Mexican tamales are done when the masa easily pulls away from the corn husk after steaming. If it sticks, steam for additional time.

Can I make Mexican Tamales ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Mexican tamales ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer before steaming.

Final Thoughts

Mexican tamales are not only delicious but also versatile. With endless filling options and customization possibilities, they cater to various tastes. Try making these delightful treats at home for your next gathering or family meal!