My Mom Teaches Me How to Make Tamales (Brisket, Pork Butt & Chicken)

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole grain masa harina

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole grain masa harina is more nutritious, while cornmeal can be a budget-friendly substitute.

beef

🥗Healthier: lean ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Lean ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground beef can be more affordable.

Soak corn husks in hot water for a couple of hours until very soft.

Remove seeds from chili peppers and boil them in water for about 15 to 20 minutes with onion and garlic for flavor.

Blend the boiled chili peppers with some of the boiling water until smooth, then strain the mixture.

Melt lard in a bowl and add salt and chili powder to the masa, adjusting by feel.

Add broth to the masa to achieve a softer consistency, testing until it holds together without falling apart.

Chop cooked chicken, brisket, and pork butt into smaller pieces for filling.

Blend the boiled chili mixture and strain it to remove solids.

Saute the strained chili mixture in a pan with lard, then add the chopped chicken to absorb flavors.

Spread masa on the smooth side of the soaked corn husks, leaving space on the edges.

Fill the masa with the meat mixture, fold the husk over, and secure the tamale.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary