20 Traditional Mexican Tamales Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 13, 2024
Traditional Mexican tamales are a staple in the gastronomy of Mexico. These delicious corn husk-wrapped dishes have been a part of Mexican culture for centuries, dating back to the time of the Aztecs. These savory treats are not only a delicious and filling meal, but they also hold a special place in Mexican traditions and celebrations. If you are looking to learn how to make traditional Mexican tamales, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these mouth-watering tamales, step by step. So, put on your apron and get ready to experience the true taste of Mexico.
Main Ingredients: Corn Flour, Mazola Corn Oil, Chicken Broth, Jalapeno
If you're craving authentic Mexican cuisine, tamales are a must-try dish. These delicious steamed bundles of corn dough filled with various meats, vegetables, or cheese have been a staple in Mexican households for centuries. With numerous variations and flavors, it's no wonder why tamales are loved by many. In this article, we've compiled the top 20 beer can chicken recipes that will take your love for tamales to a whole new level.
Mexican tamales are a classic comfort food that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The traditional recipe calls for a corn-based dough, known as masa, which is filled with a savory filling and wrapped in corn husks. The tamales are then steamed until the dough is cooked and the filling is hot and flavorful. From pork to beef to chicken, there are endless options for fillings, making tamales a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any occasion.
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Amazing Beef Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Corn Husks, Sliced Olives, Beef Chuck Roast, Garlic
If you're a fan of beef, then you'll love these amazing beef Mexican tamales. The rich and flavorful filling is made with tender chunks of beef, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave you wanting more. The beef is slow-cooked until it falls apart and is then mixed with the masa before being steamed in corn husks. The end result is a delicious and hearty tamale that will satisfy any meat lover's cravings.
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Mom's Traditional Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Pork, Garlic, Salt, Canola Oil, All Purpose Flour
When it comes to traditional Mexican tamales, nothing beats mom's recipe. Passed down from generation to generation, these tamales are a labor of love, with every ingredient and step carefully chosen and executed. From the perfectly seasoned masa to the tender and flavorful filling, these tamales are a testament to the hard work and dedication of Mexican mothers. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a regular family dinner, mom's traditional Mexican tamales will always hit the spot.
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Authentic Beef Tamales
Main Ingredients: Brisket, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Peppercorns, Dried Ancho
For those who prefer a more authentic and traditional take on tamales, look no further than this recipe for authentic beef tamales. The key to these tamales is in the filling, which is made with a combination of beef, dried chilies, and spices, giving it a deep and complex flavor. The masa is also made from scratch, using corn flour, lard, and broth for a truly authentic taste. These tamales are then steamed until the masa is soft and the filling is juicy and tender.
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Pork Tamales
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Onion, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Water, Chilies
Another classic filling for tamales is pork, and for good reason. The fatty and flavorful meat adds a delicious element to the tamales, making them irresistible. For this recipe, the pork is slow-cooked with a variety of spices and seasonings, resulting in a tender and juicy filling that is perfect for tamales. The masa is also made with a touch of the pork broth, adding even more depth of flavor to these mouthwatering tamales.
If you want to take your pork tamales to the next level, try this recipe for Mexican pork tamales. The addition of Mexican flavors such as cilantro, cumin, and jalapeno peppers adds a delicious twist to the classic filling. The masa is also made with a combination of corn flour and masa harina, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. These tamales are perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive holiday celebration.
For a tasty side dish to accompany your tamales, look no further than Mexican cornbread. This cornbread is made with a combination of cornmeal, flour, and corn kernels, giving it a unique and delicious texture. It's also flavored with green chilies, cheese, and spices, making it the perfect complement to any spicy dish. Serve it warm with a dollop of butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.
No Mexican meal is complete without a side of rice, and this recipe for Mexican rice is a perfect accompaniment to tamales. The rice is cooked with a tomato-based sauce and flavored with onions, garlic, and spices, giving it a vibrant color and delicious taste. It's also a great way to use up any leftover salsa or tomato sauce you may have on hand. Serve this flavorful rice alongside your tamales for a complete and satisfying meal.
For a fun and unique twist on traditional tamales, try making Mexican street tacos using the same ingredients and flavors. Instead of steaming the tamales, wrap the masa dough around a chicken breast and secure it with a beer can. Grill the chicken until it's cooked through and the masa is crispy, then top it with your favorite taco toppings such as salsa, avocado, and cilantro. These tasty and portable tamales are perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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Skinny Mexican Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Green Bell
For a healthier take on Mexican cuisine, try this skinny Mexican casserole that incorporates all the flavors of tamales into one dish. The casserole is made with layers of corn tortillas, lean ground beef, black beans, corn, and cheese, then topped with a homemade enchilada sauce. It's a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of tamales without all the calories. Serve it with a side of Mexican rice for a complete and well-balanced meal.
If you're a fan of Mexican street corn, then you'll love this recipe for a Mexican street corn salad. This refreshing and colorful salad is made with grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cotija cheese, then dressed with a tangy and spicy lime dressing. It's the perfect side dish to serve alongside your tamales, adding a fresh and flavorful element to your meal. You can also serve it as a dip with tortilla chips for a tasty appetizer.
No meal is complete without a delicious dessert, and Mexican flan is a perfect way to end your tamale feast. This rich and creamy custard is flavored with vanilla and topped with a decadent caramel sauce. It's a classic Mexican dessert that is loved by many, and for good reason. The silky smooth texture and indulgent flavor make it the perfect ending to a delicious meal.
If you want to take your rice game to the next level, try this recipe for authentic Mexican rice. The rice is cooked with a variety of aromatics and spices, including onions, garlic, and cumin, giving it a fragrant and delicious taste. It's also cooked with a tomato-based sauce, adding even more flavor and color to the dish. This rice is a perfect side dish for tamales, and it's also great on its own as a quick and easy meal.
No Mexican meal is complete without a side of beans, and these Mexican pinto beans are a delicious and flavorful option. The beans are cooked with a variety of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and oregano, resulting in a tasty and satisfying dish. They are also a great source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your meal. Serve them alongside your tamales for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
For a different take on traditional tamales, try this recipe for Mexican street corn tamales. The masa is filled with a mixture of corn, cheese, and spices, then steamed until cooked through. The tamales are then topped with a creamy and spicy street corn sauce, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. These tamales are perfect for those who love the flavors of Mexican street corn, and they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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Sweet Pink Mexican Tamales
Main Ingredients: Dried Corn Husks, Pineapple Tidbits, Instant Corn Masa
For a fun and festive twist on tamales, try these sweet pink Mexican tamales. The masa is flavored with strawberry puree, giving it a beautiful pink color and a touch of sweetness. The filling is made with a combination of coconut, pineapple, and raisins, creating a delicious and tropical flavor. These tamales are perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert option for your next Mexican-themed meal.
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Mexican Tamales,Tamales Mexicanos de Puerco
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Water, Onions, Garlic Cloves, Bay Leafs
If you want to impress your friends and family with your tamale-making skills, try this recipe for Mexican tamales de puerco, or pork tamales. The filling is made with a combination of pork, dried chilies, and spices, creating a rich and flavorful filling that is perfect for tamales. The masa is also made with a combination of corn flour and masa harina, giving it a delicious and authentic taste. These tamales are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
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Real Homemade Tamales
Main Ingredients: Tamale Filling, Pork Loin, Large Onion, Garlic, Chili
For those who want to experience the true taste of homemade tamales, this recipe is for you. The masa is made from scratch using corn flour, lard, and broth, creating a rich and flavorful base for the tamales. The filling is made with a combination of pork, chicken, and beef, giving these tamales a variety of flavors and textures. The tamales are then steamed until the masa is soft and the filling is hot and delicious.
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Beef and Red Chile Tamales
Main Ingredients: Boneless Beef Chuck, Small White Onions, Garlic Cloves
If you're a fan of spicy food, then you'll love these beef and red chile tamales. The filling is made with a combination of beef, red chilies, and spices, creating a flavorful and slightly spicy filling that is perfect for tamales. The masa is also flavored with red chile powder, adding even more heat and flavor to the dish. These tamales are a must-try for any spice lover.
The Ingredients
Gather Your Supplies
To make traditional Mexican tamales, you will need a few key ingredients and supplies. Most of these can be found in your local grocery store, but some may require a trip to a Latin American market. Here is a list of what you will need:
Masa Harina - This is the main ingredient for the tamale dough. It is a type of corn flour that has been treated with lime and is essential for the authentic taste of Mexican tamales.
Dried Corn Husks - These are used to wrap the tamales and give them their signature shape and flavor.
Meat - Pork is the most traditional choice for tamales, but you can also use chicken, beef, or even vegetarian fillings.
Spices and Herbs - The flavor of tamales comes from a variety of spices and herbs, such as cumin, chili powder, oregano, and garlic.
Broth or Stock - This is used to moisten the masa dough and add flavor to the tamales.
Other Fillings - In addition to meat, you can also add other fillings such as cheese, beans, or vegetables to your tamales.
Large Pot - You will need a large pot to steam the tamales.
String or Twine - This will be used to tie the tamales together.
Preparing the Tamales
Soak the Corn Husks
The first step in making traditional Mexican tamales is to soak the dried corn husks in warm water for about an hour. This will make them pliable and easier to work with.
Prepare the Masa Dough
While the corn husks are soaking, you can start preparing the masa dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, spices, and broth or stock. Mix until you have a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Tamales
Once the husks are soaked, remove them from the water and pat them dry. Take one husk and spread a thin layer of masa dough in the center, leaving about an inch of space on each side. Add your desired filling in the center of the dough and fold the sides of the husk over to cover the filling. Fold the bottom of the husk up and tie it with a piece of string or twine.
Steam the Tamales
Place the tamales in a steamer basket inside a large pot. Add water to the pot, making sure it does not touch the bottom of the tamales. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let the tamales steam for about an hour.
Enjoy Your Traditional Mexican Tamales
Serve and Garnish
Once the tamales are cooked, remove them from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes. Remove the string or twine and unwrap the husks. Serve the tamales hot, garnished with your choice of toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, or cilantro.
Now that you know how to make traditional Mexican tamales, you can impress your family and friends with this authentic and delicious dish. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner, tamales are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you.
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