Hot tamales are a delicious Mexican dish that can be served as a side dish or as a main course. They are made using corn dough, which is filled with a savory beef or pork filling, then steamed or boiled. Tamales are usually served with a variety of salsas, along with rice and beans. Making hot tamales is a labor of love, but the end result is worth it! Here’s how to make hot tamales.
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
To make hot tamales, you’ll need a few ingredients. For the dough, you’ll need corn masa harina, water, baking powder, lard or vegetable shortening, and salt. For the filling, you’ll need ground beef or pork, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil. You’ll also need a few tablespoons of lard or vegetable shortening and some banana leaves or parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
To make the dough, mix together the corn masa harina, water, baking powder, lard or shortening, and salt until it forms a soft, pliable dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set aside for 30 minutes. Once the dough has rested, knead it for a few minutes, then shape it into small balls. Set the dough balls aside for later use.
Step 3: Make the Filling
To make the filling, heat a pan over medium heat and add the ground beef or pork. Cook until the meat is browned, then add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes more, then add a bit of olive oil and set aside to cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Tamales
To assemble the tamales, take one of the dough balls and flatten it into a thin round. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of the round, then fold the edges of the dough up and around the filling to form a packet. Place the packet on a banana leaf or parchment paper and repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 5: Steam the Tamales
To steam the tamales, place them in a steamer basket and set over a pot of boiling water. Cover the pot and steam for about 30 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through. Once the tamales are done, remove from the steamer and let cool before serving.
Step 6: Serve the Tamales
To serve the tamales, unwrap them from the banana leaves or parchment paper and serve with your favorite salsas, rice, and beans. Hot tamales are best served warm, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
Making hot tamales is a labor of love, but the end result is worth it. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy these delicious Mexican treats any time!