What’s in this Tamales Recipe?
A thick corn-based dough is stuffed with your choice of Mexican-inspired fillings, wrapped up in a corn husk, and steamed to create hearty but healthy tamales that’ll keep you coming back for seconds! Pro Tip: It’s traditional to use lard in the dough instead of vegetable oil, but we wanted to keep it vegetarian-friendly! If you’re not vegetarian, give the lard-based dough a try!
Variations on Homemade Tamales
There are so many different fillings you can use in your corn tamales. Some traditional ones include pork carnitas, refried beans, and barbacoa beef. Some other fillings I think would be delicious include shredded cheese, chili con carne, chile verde, vegetarian chili, Mexican shredded chicken, beef taco meat, sangria pork, or Mexican chicken salad. You can also make sweet tamales by adding sugar to the masa harina mixture and filling with rehydrated raisins, pineapple, fruit preserves, or dulce de leche. I think they’d be so yummy filled with apple pie filling, sweet potato, or chocolate pudding!
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover tamales in an airtight container or Ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming for 15 minutes, wrapping in foil and baking in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or covering with a damp paper towel and microwaving on high for 1-2 minutes.
How to Freeze
Freeze tamales in a single layer on a lined baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container or Ziplock bag to store for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade tamales are so delicious served with a variety of condiments and toppings. I like mine with salsa, pico de gallo, or salsa verde! Guacamole and/or sour cream are also great pairings. To make it a full meal, serve your tamales with cilantro lime rice, Mexican rice, street corn, or refried beans. A warming bowl of taco soup would also be delish!
More Mexican Recipes We Love
Chicken Flautas Chicken Mole Beef Burritos Crockpot Chicken Burritos Beef Taquitos Chicken Enchiladas Chicken Chimichangas Beef Enchiladas Chicken Taquitos Taquitos Avocado Egg Rolls
