How to Make 2 Types of Tamales de Dulce (Sweet Tamales) RECIPE | The Sweetest Journey

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil reduces saturated fat while still providing richness.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk is lower in calories, while water is a budget-friendly option.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Honey can add flavor complexity, while agave syrup is often cheaper.

nuts

🥗Healthier: seeds

💰Cheaper: dried fruits

Seeds provide similar crunch with fewer allergens.

Place the dry corn husks in a large bowl of water to soak. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the masa harina, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Fold in the melted shortening until the dough is crumbly. Dilute the fruit juice concentrate in the two cups of water. Gradually add the juice mixture to the dough and mix well. The finished dough should be soft and hold shape (add more juice+water if necessary). Separate the dough in half.

To one half of the dough, add the raisins and pecans. Fold in or knead by hand to evenly incorporate the raisins and pecans into the dough.

To the other half of the dough, gradually fold in the drained fruit until well combined.

Remove the corn husks from the water and soak up any excess water with paper towels.

At the center of each corn husk, place a ball of the prepared dough. (Make sure it does not overflow, there should still be enough space so that the two edges of the corn husk can fold over and cover the dough completely.) With the point of the corn husk facing up, fold the two sides over the dough, then fold down the point. Repeat the process with the rest of the prepared dough.

Fill the bottom of a large steamer pot with water and put its insert in place. Place the tamales into the pot forming a circle while leaving an empty space at the center of the pot. Cover and cook over medium heat for 1 hour or until the tamales are cooked through. Once the tamales are done, the corn husks will begin to separate easily from each tamal. Serve warm.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens