Mexican Christmas Tamales
This holiday season, bring the taste of Mexico to your table with our recipe for Tamales. This traditional dish is made with masa, meat or other fillings, and wrapped in corn husks. It's perfect for sharing with family and friends during Christmas time. Follow our easy-to-follow instructions and enjoy the rich and flavorful taste of this beloved Mexican classic.
**Ingredients:**
For the Tamale Dough (Masa):
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or lard
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
For the Filling (Choose one or more of the following):
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Pork with red chili sauce (Chile Colorado)
- Cheese and jalapeños
- Roasted vegetables
For Assembly:
- Dried corn husks, soaked in warm water to soften
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional, for serving)
- Crema or sour cream (optional, for serving)
**Instructions:**
**Preparing the Masa Dough:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, salt, and ground cumin (if using).
2. In a separate pot, heat the chicken or vegetable broth until it's warm. Mix the warm broth and the vegetable oil or lard into the masa harina mixture. Stir until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough.
**Assembling the Tamales:**
1. Take a softened corn husk and place a spoonful of masa dough in the center. Use the back of the spoon to spread the dough out to the edges of the husk, leaving a border around the edges.
2. Add your desired filling in the center of the masa.
3. Fold the sides of the corn husk over the masa and filling, then fold up the bottom and secure the tamale by tying it with a thin strip of softened corn husk.
4. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients.
**Cooking the Tamales:**
1. Place a steamer basket in a large pot and fill the bottom with water, making sure the water level is below the steamer basket.
2. Arrange the tamales vertically in the steamer basket, open ends facing up. Make sure they are tightly packed to prevent unraveling.
3. Cover the tamales with a layer of softened corn husks and a damp cloth.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales over medium heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the masa has cooked and the tamales are firm.
**Serving the Tamales:**
1. Allow the tamales to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve your Christmas Tamales with salsa or hot sauce, and crema or sour cream, if desired.
Mexican Christmas Tamales are a cherished holiday tradition and make for a delicious and festive meal to enjoy with your loved ones.