The Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Festival – Mississippi Roads

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber, while cornmeal is often less expensive.

vegetable shortening

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: butter

Coconut oil is a healthier fat option, while butter is often more affordable.

red chili sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade salsa

💰Cheaper: hot sauce

Homemade salsa can be fresher and healthier, while hot sauce is usually cheaper.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides similar creaminess with lower calories, while plain yogurt is usually less expensive.

Soak corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes until pliable.

In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, salt, and baking powder.

In a separate bowl, beat vegetable shortening until fluffy.

Gradually mix in masa harina mixture and water until dough is smooth.

Prepare filling by shredding cooked chicken and mixing with red chili sauce, onion, garlic, cumin, and black pepper.

Spread a portion of masa dough onto the center of each corn husk.

Add a spoonful of chicken filling on top of the masa.

Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up to secure.

Place tamales upright in a steamer pot, standing them on their folded ends.

Cover with a damp cloth and steam for 1-1.5 hours, adding water as needed.

Tamales are done when the masa separates easily from the husk.

Serve hot with sour cream, cilantro, lime, and cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: