18 Best Mexican Tamales Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
One of the most beloved and iconic dishes in Mexican cuisine is the tamale. These flavorful little bundles of masa, filled with a variety of delicious fillings and steamed to perfection, have been a staple in Mexican households for centuries. Making tamales may seem like a daunting task, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create the perfect batch of tamales right in your own kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of creating the best Mexican tamales recipe that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Main Ingredients: Corn Flour, Mazola Corn Oil, Chicken Broth, Jalapeno
Mexican tamales are a beloved and traditional dish that is enjoyed all over the world. These delicious corn husk-wrapped bundles are filled with a variety of savory and mouthwatering fillings. From spicy meats to flavorful vegetables, there is a tamale for everyone's taste buds. Here are 20 delicious and unique Mexican tamale recipes to try!
Tamales are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are typically served during special occasions and holidays. These savory treats are made by steaming a corn-based dough known as masa, which is filled with various meats, vegetables, and spices. Tamales can also be served with a variety of sauces and toppings, making them a versatile and flavorful dish.
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Amazing Beef Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Corn Husks, Sliced Olives, Beef Chuck Roast, Garlic
These beef tamales are packed with bold and delicious flavors. Tender beef is cooked with a blend of Mexican spices and then wrapped in a corn husk with the masa dough. These tamales can be served with a side of salsa or guacamole for an extra kick of flavor.
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Mom's Traditional Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Pork, Garlic, Salt, Canola Oil, All Purpose Flour
There is nothing quite like a traditional Mexican tamale made by mom. These tamales are often passed down from generation to generation and are cherished for their authentic and flavorful taste. These tamales are typically filled with pork, chicken, or beef and are a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic Mexican experience.
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Authentic Beef Tamales
Main Ingredients: Brisket, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Peppercorns, Dried Ancho
If you are looking for a traditional and authentic Mexican tamale recipe, look no further. These tamales are filled with succulent beef, bold spices, and a touch of chili for a little heat. These tamales are perfect for any special occasion or for a hearty and flavorful meal.
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Pork Tamales
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Water, Chilies
Pork tamales are a popular choice among tamale lovers. The tender and juicy pork is slow-cooked with a variety of spices and then wrapped in the masa dough. These tamales are often served with a side of salsa or a dollop of sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.
These Mexican pork tamales are a delicious and flavorful twist on the traditional tamale. The pork is cooked with a blend of Mexican spices and then topped with a rich and tangy sauce for added flavor. These tamales are sure to be a hit at any gathering or special occasion.
Mexican cornbread is a delicious and easy side dish to serve with tamales. This cornbread is made with a blend of cornmeal, flour, and spices and can be topped with cheese, jalapenos, or other toppings for added flavor. This cornbread pairs perfectly with any type of tamale.
Mexican rice is a staple side dish that is often served with tamales. This flavorful rice is made with a blend of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices for a burst of flavor in every bite. This rice can also be served with other Mexican dishes such as tacos or enchiladas.
Mexican street tacos are a popular and delicious way to enjoy tamales. These tacos are made with small corn tortillas and filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces. These tacos are perfect for a quick and flavorful meal and can be customized to suit your taste buds.
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Skinny Mexican Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Green Bell
If you are looking for a healthier twist on traditional tamales, this skinny Mexican casserole is the perfect choice. This casserole is made with layers of corn tortillas, beans, vegetables, and spices for a delicious and guilt-free meal. This casserole can also be topped with a dollop of sour cream or avocado for added flavor.
Mexican street corn salad is a delicious and refreshing side dish to serve with tamales. This salad is made with grilled corn, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing for a burst of flavor in every bite. This salad is also a great way to use up any leftover tamales.
No meal is complete without a delicious and sweet dessert. Mexican flan is a popular choice among tamale lovers. This creamy and rich custard is made with eggs, milk, and sugar and can be flavored with vanilla, coffee, or other flavors. This dessert is the perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note.
Authentic Mexican rice is a staple side dish that can be served with tamales or any other Mexican dish. This rice is made with a blend of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices and can be customized to suit your taste buds. This flavorful rice is sure to be a hit at any gathering or special occasion.
Mexican pinto beans are a delicious and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with tamales. These beans are cooked with a variety of spices and can be served as a side dish or used as a filling for vegetarian tamales. These beans are a great way to add protein and flavor to any meal.
Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is a popular and flavorful side dish that is often served with tamales. This corn is grilled and then topped with a mixture of mayonnaise, cheese, and spices for a creamy and spicy flavor. This street corn is a must-try for any tamale lover.
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Sweet Pink Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Dried Corn Husks, Pineapple Tidbits, Instant Corn Masa
These sweet pink Mexican tamales are a unique and delicious twist on the traditional tamale. The masa dough is infused with a touch of beet juice, giving it a beautiful pink color. These tamales are filled with a sweet and savory mixture of pineapple, raisins, and cinnamon for a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Mexican Tamales,Tamales Mexicanos de Puerco
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Water, Onions, Garlic Cloves, Bay Leafs
This traditional Mexican tamale recipe is a must-try for any tamale lover. These tamales are filled with succulent pork, bold spices, and a touch of chili for a little heat. These tamales are often served during special occasions and holidays and are a beloved and authentic Mexican dish.
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Real Homemade Tamales
Main Ingredients: Tamale Filling, Pork Loin, Large Onion, Garlic, Chili
Nothing beats a homemade tamale made with love and authenticity. These tamales are made with a blend of traditional Mexican spices and a variety of fillings such as chicken, beef, or vegetables. These tamales are often served with a side of salsa or guacamole for added flavor.
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Beef and Red Chile Tamales
Main Ingredients: Boneless Beef Chuck, Small White Onions, Garlic Cloves
These beef and red chile tamales are a flavorful and spicy twist on the traditional tamale. The beef is cooked with a blend of red chilies and spices, giving it a bold and delicious flavor. These tamales are perfect for anyone who loves a little heat in their food.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making tamales, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. Masa harina, which is corn dough, is the main ingredient used to make the tamale dough. It is essential to use a high-quality masa harina, as it will greatly affect the texture and flavor of your tamales. Look for a brand that is labeled as "instant" or "pre-cooked" for the best results. Chili powder and ground cumin are two key spices that add a depth of flavor to the masa. Make sure to use fresh spices for maximum flavor. Pork lard is traditionally used in tamales, but if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with vegetable shortening. Lastly, dried corn husks are used to wrap the tamales and can be found in most Latin American markets or online.
Preparing the Masa
To make the perfect tamale dough, it is essential to follow a few key steps. First, make sure your masa harina is well hydrated by mixing it with warm water until it forms a smooth dough. Next, add in your spices, lard, and a pinch of salt and mix well. The masa should have a light and fluffy consistency. If it is too dry, add more water, and if it is too wet, add more masa harina. Let the masa rest for at least 30 minutes before using it to allow the flavors to develop.
Assembling and Cooking the Tamales
To assemble the tamales, spread a thin layer of masa onto a soaked corn husk. Add your desired filling, such as shredded chicken, pork, or beef, and roll the husk tightly around the filling. Tie the ends with a strip of husk or kitchen twine to secure the tamale. Once all of your tamales are assembled, place them in a steamer and steam for 1-1.5 hours, depending on the size of the tamales. To check if they are done, unwrap one and make sure the masa is cooked through and not sticking to the husk.
Serving and Enjoying Your Tamales
Once your tamales are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before unwrapping and serving. Tamales can be served with a variety of toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a delicious and filling meal. Now that you have mastered the art of making tamales, get creative with different fillings and experiment with your own unique flavors. With this recipe, you can impress your loved ones and bring a taste of Mexico to your own kitchen.
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