Tamales, savory and sweet

Source: A cooking class through work

Savory Tamales

Tips

For a rich flavor you can use lard or a savory broth for your masa. Simmer cooked protein in a red or green sauce before adding to the tamales. Roast Anaheim chiles and slice lengthwise for a vegetarian filling.

Ingredients

  • 4 corn husks (pre-soak in warm water for 15 min)
  • 6 pieces of parchment paper
  • 8 oz maseca
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp shortening
  • 1/4 cup broth or water (I needed a lot more)
  • 4 oz protein (your choice, cooked stewed and chopped or shredded)
  • 4 pieces of butchers twine

Preparation

  1. Mix dry ingredients. In a stand mixer, mix maseca with baking powder. Add shortening and mix well.
  2. Add broth. Slowly add broth by the tablespoon until masa is blended by not runny. (About like pie crust dough.)
  3. Spread masa on corn husk. Take one pre-soaked corn husk into the palm of your hand. With a spoon spread masa into the center of corn husk but not too close to the edge.
  4. Add filling. Scoop 1 tablespoon of filling of your choice into the center of corn hus. Fold corn husk (and masa) over to cover.
  5. Wrap in parchment. Place tamale in the center of the parchment square and secure the ends with butcher’s twine.
  6. Steam. Place tamales in a vegetable steamer inside of a pot of simmering water. Cover and let steam for 1 hour.

Sweet Tamales

Ingredients

  • Add additional 1/4 cup sugar with dry ingredients
  • Use water or pineapple juice for liquid
  • Replace filling with something sweet and not too wet such as
    • 2oz raisins
    • 2oz shredded coconut