How To Make Tamales

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

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

pork chicharrón

🥗Healthier: chicken skin

💰Cheaper: pork belly

Chicken skin is lower in fat, while pork belly can be more affordable.

Introduce the recipe for Christmas tamales, mentioning both beef and pork fillings.

Gather ingredients needed for the tamales, including masa harina, water, salt, beef, pork, corn husks, and baking powder.

Soak corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes.

In a bowl, mix masa harina, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add water to the dry mixture until a dough forms, ensuring the consistency is right.

Spread a portion of the dough onto a soaked corn husk, making sure to cover it evenly.

Add your choice of filling (beef or pork) in the center of the dough.

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

Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot, ensuring they are packed tightly together.

Steam for about 1 to 1.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure there is enough water in the steamer.

Check for doneness; the masa should be firm and pull away from the husk easily.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary