As the holiday season approaches, many families and friends gather together to celebrate and indulge in delicious food. While there are many traditional dishes associated with this time of year, one that stands out is the holiday tamales recipe. This beloved dish has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries and is a must-have on many holiday tables. In this article, we will explore the history and cultural significance of tamales, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to make them at home. So get your apron on and let's get cooking!
Main Ingredients: Brisket, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Peppercorns, Dried Ancho
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with these authentic beef tamales. Tender beef, spicy chilies, and fragrant spices come together to create a mouthwatering filling, wrapped in a corn masa dough and steamed to perfection. These tamales are a labor of love, but the end result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
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Pork Tamales
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Water, Chilies
If beef isn't your preferred protein, try making these delicious pork tamales instead. Slow-cooked pork, seasoned with a blend of spices and green chilies, is the star of the show in these traditional tamales. The tender and juicy meat pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet and slightly spicy masa dough.
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Holiday Honeycrisp Salad
Main Ingredients: Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Unsweetened
Looking for a fresh and light dish to balance out all the indulgent holiday meals? This holiday honeycrisp salad is the perfect option. Crisp apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans are tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and topped with creamy goat cheese. It's a delicious and refreshing addition to any holiday spread.
Nothing says holiday cheer like a glass of spiked eggnog. This classic holiday drink is made even more festive with the addition of a splash of rum or bourbon. Serve it cold with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top for a creamy and indulgent treat that will have everyone feeling merry and bright.
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Pumpkin Chai Holiday Cupcakes
Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Tea Bags, All Purpose Flour, Dark Brown
Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious pumpkin chai cupcakes. Moist and fluffy pumpkin cupcakes are infused with warm chai spices and topped with a creamy chai buttercream frosting. These cupcakes are a delicious and unique addition to any holiday dessert table.
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Delicious Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Corn Flour, Mazola Corn Oil, Chicken Broth, Jalapeno
Take a trip to Mexico with these delicious and authentic Mexican tamales. Corn masa dough is filled with a tender and flavorful chicken and vegetable filling, then steamed to perfection. These tamales are a true taste of Mexico and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Spread some holiday cheer with this festive jingle juice punch. Made with a combination of cranberry juice, orange juice, and sparkling wine, this punch is both sweet and tangy with a hint of bubbly. It's the perfect drink to serve at any holiday party.
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10 Holiday Side Dishes
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Butternut Squash
No holiday meal is complete without some delicious and flavorful side dishes. From creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables to savory stuffing, these 10 holiday side dishes will take your holiday feast to the next level. Don't forget to save room on your plate for these tasty additions.
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Easy Tamales
Main Ingredients: Masa Harina, Stock, Salt, Baking Powder, Lard, Butter
Don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen? These easy tamales are the perfect solution. Using store-bought corn husks and prepared masa dough, these tamales come together in no time. Fill them with your choice of meat or vegetables and enjoy a tasty and effortless meal.
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Instant Pot Tamales
Main Ingredients: Dried Corn Husks, Dough, Savory, Water
If you have an Instant Pot, you can make delicious tamales in a fraction of the time it takes to make them traditionally. Simply assemble the tamales and place them in the Instant Pot for a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic Mexican dish. It's a game-changer for busy holiday cooks.
These holiday sausage balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that are perfect for any holiday party. Made with a combination of ground pork, cheddar cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, they are packed with flavor and are always a hit. Serve them with a side of honey mustard for dipping.
Looking for a non-alcoholic option for your holiday party? This holiday punch is the perfect solution. Made with a combination of fruit juices and soda, it's a refreshing and fruity drink that everyone can enjoy. Add some festive garnishes like cranberries or orange slices for an extra special touch.
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Tamales
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Loin, Pasilla, Cooking Oil, Water, Salt
Whether you're making them for a holiday gathering or just want to enjoy them at home, tamales are a delicious and comforting meal option. The possibilities for fillings are endless, so you can get creative and make them your own. Plus, they freeze well, so you can enjoy them any time of year.
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Homemade Pork Tamales: Tamales de Cerdo
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt Roast, Bacon, Salt, Pepper, Large Onion
For an authentic taste of Mexico, try making homemade pork tamales, also known as tamales de cerdo. Tender pork is slow-cooked with a blend of spices and chilies, then wrapped in a corn masa dough and steamed. The end result is a melt-in-your-mouth filling that is packed with flavor.
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Vegan Tamales
Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Olive Oil, Masa Harina, Fresh Corn, Small
Even if you follow a plant-based diet, you can still enjoy delicious tamales. These vegan tamales are filled with a flavorful mix of vegetables and beans, wrapped in a corn masa dough and steamed. They are a tasty and cruelty-free option for anyone looking for a meatless meal.
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Mom's Holiday Crab Dip
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, Dried Minced
This holiday crab dip is a family favorite in many households. Made with lump crab meat, cream cheese, and a blend of spices, it's a rich and creamy dip that is perfect for spreading on crackers or dipping with veggies. It's a must-have at any holiday gathering.
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Crock Pot Holiday Ham
Main Ingredients: Ham, Dark Brown Sugar, Pure Maple Syrup, Pineapple
Save yourself some time and oven space by making this delicious crockpot holiday ham. The ham is cooked low and slow in a sweet and tangy glaze, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. It's the perfect option for a stress-free holiday meal.
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Holiday Leftovers Turkey Casserole
Main Ingredients: Stuffing, Roast Turkey, Mixed Vegetables, Mayonnaise
Don't let any of your holiday leftovers go to waste with this tasty turkey casserole. Shredded turkey is mixed with vegetables, gravy, and topped with mashed potatoes and cheese, then baked to perfection. It's a delicious and easy way to use up any extra holiday food.
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Christmas Punch (Holiday Punch)
Main Ingredients: Orange, Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Orange Juice
Another delicious non-alcoholic option for your holiday party is this Christmas punch. Made with a mix of fruity juices and ginger ale, it's a refreshing and festive drink that is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Serve it in a punch bowl with some ice and garnishes for a beautiful presentation.
Last but certainly not least, we have another tasty and authentic Mexican tamale recipe. These tamales are packed with flavor, thanks to a filling made with a blend of meats and spices. They are then wrapped in corn husks and steamed to create a delicious and traditional dish that will transport your taste buds to Mexico.
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Authentic Beef Tamales
Main Ingredients: Brisket, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Peppercorns, Dried Ancho
If you're looking for a delicious and authentic Mexican dish to serve at your next gathering, look no further than these mouth-watering Authentic Beef Tamales. Made with tender shredded beef, savory spices, and a homemade masa dough, these tamales are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
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Pork Tamales
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Water, Chilies
For a twist on the traditional tamales, try making these Pork Tamales. The succulent pork filling, combined with a spicy red chili sauce, is wrapped in a corn husk and steamed to perfection. These tamales are sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or potluck.
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Holiday Honeycrisp Salad
Main Ingredients: Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Unsweetened
Looking for a fresh and festive side dish to complement your Beer Can Chicken? Look no further than this Holiday Honeycrisp Salad. Crisp apples, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans are tossed with a tangy vinaigrette dressing for a tasty and colorful addition to your holiday table.
Nothing says "holiday season" like a glass of rich and creamy eggnog. But why settle for plain old eggnog when you can add a little kick to it? This Holiday Spiked Eggnog recipe combines the classic flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon with a splash of bourbon or rum for a festive twist on a beloved drink.
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Pumpkin Chai Holiday Cupcakes
Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Tea Bags, All Purpose Flour, Dark Brown
Add a touch of fall to your holiday menu with these Pumpkin Chai Holiday Cupcakes. Moist and flavorful pumpkin cupcakes are infused with warm spices, then topped with a creamy chai frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon. These delicious treats are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
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Delicious Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Corn Flour, Mazola Corn Oil, Chicken Broth, Jalapeno
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you have to try these Delicious Mexican Tamales. Tender shredded chicken, savory spices, and a flavorful homemade masa dough are wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. Serve them with your favorite salsa and a squeeze of lime for a delicious and authentic taste of Mexico.
Get the party started with this festive and colorful Jingle Juice Holiday Punch. Made with cranberry juice, orange juice, and a splash of vodka, this punch is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Add some sparkling water for a fizzy twist, and garnish with cranberries and orange slices for a festive presentation.
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10 Holiday Side Dishes
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Butternut Squash
No holiday feast is complete without a variety of delicious side dishes to complement the main course. This list of 10 Holiday Side Dishes features everything from classic mashed potatoes to unique and flavorful options like roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. Mix and match to create the perfect holiday spread.
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Easy Tamales
Main Ingredients: Masa Harina, Stock, Salt, Baking Powder, Lard, Butter
For a simplified version of the traditional tamales, try making these Easy Tamales. This recipe uses store-bought corn tortillas instead of a homemade masa dough, making the process quick and easy. Fill them with your choice of filling and top with your favorite salsa for a tasty and convenient meal.
These Holiday Sausage Balls are a must-have for any holiday gathering. Made with a combination of sausage, cheese, and biscuit mix, these bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time.
For a non-alcoholic option that everyone can enjoy, try this refreshing Holiday Punch. Made with cranberry juice, sparkling apple cider, and a splash of lime juice, this punch is both festive and delicious. Add some fresh cranberries and apple slices for a beautiful presentation.
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Instant Pot Tamales
Main Ingredients: Dried Corn Husks, Dough, Savory, Water
If you have an Instant Pot, why not put it to use for these Instant Pot Tamales? This recipe uses the pressure cooker function to steam the tamales quickly and efficiently, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Customize the filling with your favorite meat and spices for a tasty and convenient meal.
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Tamales
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Loin, Pasilla, Cooking Oil, Water, Salt
For a classic and traditional tamale recipe, look no further than this straightforward Tamales recipe. This recipe uses a simple masa dough and a savory filling of your choice, wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. Serve them with your favorite salsa and enjoy the authentic flavors of Mexico.
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Homemade Pork Tamales: Tamales de Cerdo
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt Roast, Bacon, Salt, Pepper, Large Onion
For a special occasion or holiday meal, try making these Homemade Pork Tamales. The tender pork filling, combined with a rich and flavorful red chili sauce, is wrapped in a homemade masa dough and steamed to perfection. These tamales are sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite.
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Vegan Tamales
Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Olive Oil, Masa Harina, Fresh Corn, Small
Even if you follow a vegan diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of tamales with this Vegan Tamales recipe. The masa dough is made with vegetable broth instead of lard, and the filling is made with a combination of vegetables and beans for a hearty and flavorful dish that everyone can enjoy.
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Mom's Holiday Crab Dip
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, Dried Minced
If you're in charge of bringing an appetizer to your next holiday gathering, surprise your friends and family with this tasty Mom's Holiday Crab Dip. Made with creamy cream cheese, tender crab meat, and a variety of flavorful spices, this dip is sure to be a hit. Serve it with crackers, chips, or sliced veggies for a delicious and easy party snack.
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Crock Pot Holiday Ham
Main Ingredients: Ham, Dark Brown Sugar, Pure Maple Syrup, Pineapple
Take the stress out of cooking a holiday ham with this easy Crock Pot Holiday Ham recipe. Simply season the ham, place it in the slow cooker, and let it cook to perfection while you focus on other dishes. The result is a tender and flavorful ham that is perfect for a holiday feast.
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Holiday Leftovers Turkey Casserole
Main Ingredients: Stuffing, Roast Turkey, Mixed Vegetables, Mayonnaise
Don't let your holiday leftovers go to waste with this Holiday Leftovers Turkey Casserole. Simply combine diced turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and any other leftover veggies or sides you have on hand, top with gravy, and bake for a delicious and easy meal.
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Christmas Punch (Holiday Punch)
Main Ingredients: Orange, Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Orange Juice
For a festive and colorful addition to your holiday party, serve this Christmas Punch (Holiday Punch). Made with a combination of cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and ginger ale, this punch is both sweet and tangy. Add some fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a beautiful and festive presentation.
For a taste of Mexico in every bite, try making these Mexican Tamales. The masa dough is flavored with ancho chili powder and cumin, and the filling is made with a combination of chicken, veggies, and spices. Serve them with your favorite salsa and enjoy the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.
The History of Tamales
The Origins of Tamales
Tamales can be traced back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where they were a staple food for Aztec and Mayan cultures. These early tamales were made with a corn dough and filled with various meats and vegetables, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed. Tamales were also used as portable food for soldiers and travelers, as they could easily be carried and eaten on the go.
The Cultural Significance of Tamales
Throughout history, tamales have played a significant role in Mexican cuisine and culture. They are often associated with celebrations and special occasions, such as weddings, holidays, and religious ceremonies. In fact, tamales are an essential part of the Christmas festivities in Mexico, where families gather together to make and eat them as a symbol of unity and togetherness.
Making Your Own Holiday Tamales
Ingredients
To make tamales at home, you will need corn husks, masa harina (corn flour), chicken or pork, broth, and various spices and seasonings. You can also add other fillings such as beans, cheese, or vegetables to make them your own.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Soak the corn husks in warm water for about an hour to soften them.
2. In a large pot, boil the chicken or pork until fully cooked. Shred the meat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the masa harina with broth until a dough-like consistency is formed.
4. Add in your desired spices and seasonings to the masa dough.
5. Take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of masa dough onto it.
6. Add a spoonful of the shredded meat and any additional fillings on top of the dough.
7. Fold the corn husk over the filling, creating a sealed pocket.
8. Repeat this process with the remaining corn husks and filling.
9. In a steamer or large pot with a steaming basket, place the tamales upright and steam for about an hour.
10. Once done, let the tamales cool before unwrapping and serving.
Pro tip: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken or pork with your favorite vegetables and use vegetable broth instead.
In Conclusion
Tamales are not only a delicious holiday dish, but they also hold a significant cultural and historical importance in Mexican cuisine. By following this recipe, you can bring a taste of tradition and togetherness to your holiday celebrations. So gather your loved ones, put on some festive music, and enjoy the process of making and savoring your very own holiday tamales.
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