Chicken Tamales Recipe Taste of Home from www.tasteofhome.com
Introduction
Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made from masa, a dough made from corn, and filled with various ingredients such as meats, beans, and vegetables. This dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. Making tamales may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and instructions, anyone can enjoy this delicious and authentic dish.
Ingredients
Making tamales requires a few key ingredients that can be found in most grocery stores. Here's what you'll need:
Masa Dough:
4 cups of masa harina (corn flour)
3 cups of chicken broth or water
1 1/2 cups of vegetable shortening or lard
1 tablespoon of baking powder
1 tablespoon of salt
Filling:
2 cups of cooked and shredded meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
1 cup of cooked beans (black or pinto)
1 cup of diced vegetables (onions, peppers, tomatoes)
1/2 cup of salsa or hot sauce
Corn Husks:
20-30 dried corn husks
Warm water for soaking
Instructions
Making tamales may take some time and effort, but the end result is worth it. Here's how to make tamales step-by-step:
Step 1: Soak the Corn Husks
Before making the tamales, soak the dried corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes. This will make them pliable and easier to work with.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked and shredded meat, cooked beans, diced vegetables, and salsa or hot sauce. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Masa Dough
In a separate bowl, mix together the masa harina, chicken broth or water, vegetable shortening or lard, baking powder, and salt until a smooth dough forms.
Step 4: Assemble the Tamales
To assemble the tamales, take a soaked corn husk and spread a spoonful of the masa dough onto it. Leave some space around the edges. Add a spoonful of the filling on top of the masa dough. Roll the corn husk tightly around the filling and fold the bottom end up.
Step 5: Steam the Tamales
Place the tamales upright in a steamer basket and steam for 1-2 hours. Check the water level periodically and add more water as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the tamales are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Nutrition
Tamales are a filling and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here's a breakdown of the nutrition in a typical tamale:
Calories: 285
Protein: 9g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
Tamales are a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations in Mexico and around the world. With the right ingredients and instructions, anyone can make this delicious and authentic dish at home. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving some comfort food, tamales are sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste of Mexico in your own kitchen!
