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Ingredients
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Dough
Beef Filling
Green Corn Filling (alternative)
Wrapping
Method
Prepare Ingredients
- 1
Soak Corn Husks
Soak the corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes until soft and pliable.
- 2
Prepare Beef Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- 3
Prepare Green Corn Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine fresh corn kernels, cream cheese, diced green chilies, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Make Dough
- 4
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
- 5
Incorporate Lard
Add lard or vegetable shortening to the dry ingredients and mix until crumbly.
- 6
Add Liquid
Gradually add vegetable broth or water until a soft but firm dough forms. You may not need all the liquid.
Assemble Tamales
- 7
Shape Tamales
Take a soaked corn husk and spread about 1/4 cup of the dough onto the center of the husk, leaving space at the edges. Add a tablespoon of beef or green corn filling in the center of the dough.
- 8
Fold and Wrap
Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up to secure the tamale. Repeat with remaining husks, dough, and filling.
Cook Tamales
- 9
Prepare Steamer
Fill a large pot with water and place a steamer basket inside. Bring water to a simmer.
- 10
Steam Tamales
Place tamales upright in the steamer basket. Cover with a damp cloth and steam for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until dough is firm and pulls away from the husk.
