Have you ever tasted Tamales Verdes or green tamales? If not, you’re in for a treat! This delicious dish is a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine. Tamales are made from masa (a type of dough) and filled with various ingredients, but the green version is particularly special because it’s made with a flavorful green salsa.
The history of tamales dates back thousands of years, and they were traditionally prepared by the ancient Aztecs. Today, tamales are popular for celebrations, holidays, and family gatherings. They are loved for their comforting taste and the fun of unwrapping the corn husks to reveal the tasty filling inside. Plus, they can be made with a variety of fillings, making them very appealing to all kinds of eaters!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masa harina (corn flour) | 4 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable shortening or lard | 1 cup |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 2 to 3 cups |
| Tomatillos | 10-12, husked |
| Jalapeño or serrano peppers | 1-2, to taste |
| Cilantro | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Onion | 1 small, chopped |
| Cooked chicken or cheese (optional) | 2 cups |
| Corn husks | 20-30, soaked in warm water |
Tip: You can substitute lard with vegetable shortening for a vegetarian option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Green Salsa: In a pot, boil the tomatillos and jalapeños until soft (about 10 minutes). Blend them with cilantro and onion until smooth.
- Make the Masa Dough: In a large bowl, mix masa harina, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the vegetable shortening until fluffy. Gradually add the masa mixture and enough broth to make a smooth dough.
- Combine: Fold in 1 cup of the green salsa into the masa dough. Save the rest for serving.
- Assemble the Tamales: Take a soaked corn husk and spread a spoonful of masa in the center. Add a bit of cooked chicken or cheese if you like. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling and then fold up the bottom.
- Steam the Tamales: Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot. Cover them with additional corn husks or a wet cloth. Steam for about 1 to 1.5 hours, checking to make sure they stay moist.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from the steamer and let cool slightly. Serve with the leftover green salsa!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 9g | 14% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use fresh tomatillos and peppers to enhance the flavor of your tamales.
- Don’t Rush the Steaming: Make sure to steam them long enough so the masa cooks thoroughly; this makes a big difference in texture.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like beans, cheese, or even sweet ingredients!
- Storing: You can freeze tamales for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the steamer when you’re ready to enjoy!
FAQs
What are tamales made of?
Tamales are primarily made of masa harina and can be filled with various ingredients like meats, cheese, or vegetables.
How long do tamales take to cook?
Tamales typically take about 1 to 1.5 hours to steam, depending on their size and the filling used.
Can I make tamales ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare tamales in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to steam them.
What can I serve with tamales?
Tamales are often served with green salsa, sour cream, or a side of rice and beans.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can mix in different vegetables like zucchini or corn into your tamales for added flavor and texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for tamales?
Yes! You can make vegetarian tamales by using vegetable broth and filling them with cheese, beans, or vegetables instead of meat.
How do I know when tamales are done cooking?
Tamales are done when the masa easily pulls away from the corn husk, which indicates they are cooked through.
Can I make tamales in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook tamales in a slow cooker by adding a little water to the bottom and stacking them vertically.
What should I do if the masa is too dry?
If your masa is too dry, you can add more broth, a couple of tablespoons at a time, until it reaches a smooth consistency.
How long do tamales last in the fridge?
Cooked tamales can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days, stored in an airtight container.
Now that you know how to make Tamales Verdes, gather your ingredients and enjoy cooking this delightful dish! It’s a wonderful way to bring friends and family together while celebrating the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine.
