The Tale of Tamales: A Journey to Mexico

If you've ever had a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, you know that it's a flavor fiesta like no other. From spicy salsas to savory tamales, each dish is a celebration of Mexico's vibrant culinary culture. Today, we're diving into the art of making tamales, a traditional Mexican dish that's sure to win over your taste buds and impress your friends and family.

The Tale of Tamales: A Journey to Mexico

Our story begins in Puebla, Mexico, where a young couple found themselves immersed in the rich tapestry of Mexican life. It was there, in the heart of Puebla, that they met a kind-hearted grandmother who would forever change the way they viewed food. This grandmother, with her years of culinary wisdom, taught them the art of making tamales, a dish that has been passed down through generations.

1. Start by softening the corn husks. Place them in a bowl of hot water for about 30 minutes until they become pliable.

2. Prepare your desired filling. For a single batch of tamale dough, you'll need approximately 3 ½-4 cups of filling. Some popular options include:

• Salsa verde chicken: Mix 3 ½ cups of cooked, shredded chicken with a 16-ounce can of salsa verde.

• Bean and cheese: Combine a 15-ounce can of refried beans with 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.

• Red chili pork: Follow a recipe for red chili pork to create a flavorful filling.
  

The Heart of the Tamale: The Masa Dough

The key to a great tamale lies in its masa dough. Made from masa harina, broth, baking powder, salt, and a touch of lard, this dough is the perfect canvas for your favorite fillings. Beat the lard and broth until fluffy, then add the masa flour mixture gradually until you achieve a creamy, slightly sticky dough. This will be the foundation of your tamales, so take your time and make it just right.

Filling the Tamales: A Labor of Love

With your masa dough ready, it's time to fill your tamales with deliciousness. Whether you prefer pork, chicken, or beans and cheese, the choice is yours. Spread a thin layer of masa dough on a soaked corn husk, then add your filling of choice down the center. Fold the husk over the filling, creating a neat little package of goodness.

Cooking the Tamales: A Steaming Success

Now comes the fun part - cooking your tamales to perfection. Whether you choose to steam them on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, the process is the same. Stand your tamales upright in a steamer, making sure they're snug but not too tight. Steam them for 1-2 hours, or until the masa dough is cooked through and firm to the touch.

Serving Up Your Tamales: A Mexican Fiesta on a Plate

Once your tamales are cooked, it's time to serve them up with all the fixings. Top them with salsa, avocado, sour cream, or pico de gallo for a burst of flavor in every bite. Pair them with authentic Mexican rice and refried beans for a meal that's sure to transport you south of the border.

Freezing and Reheating: Tamales on Demand

If you're like us, you'll want to make a big batch of tamales to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Simply freeze them in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months, then reheat them in the microwave for a quick and easy meal. The wet paper towels will help them steam as they reheat, ensuring they're just as delicious as the day you made them.

The Perfect Tamale: Made with Love

So there you have it, a simple step-by-step guide to making the perfect tamale. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these tamales are sure to be a hit. So gather your friends and family, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to experience the true flavors of Mexico with El Novillo Meat Market.