Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Izzy's›Add Single Tamale Recipe

Add Single Tamale Recipe

Inspired by Izzy's
Time2h
Serves4

Make Add Single Tamale Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tamale Dough

Wrapping

Method

Prepare the Dough

  1. 1

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of masa harina, 1 tsp of baking powder, and 1 tsp of salt. Stir well to blend the dry ingredients.

  2. 2

    Add Shortening

    Add 1 cup of vegetable shortening to the dry ingredients. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. 3

    Add Liquid

    Gradually add 1 cup of warm water or broth to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If necessary, add a little more water to achieve the right consistency.

Prepare the Filling

  1. 4

    Combine Filling Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of red salsa, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Assemble the Tamale

  1. 5

    Soak Corn Husks

    Soak 10 pieces of corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften them, then drain.

  2. 6

    Form the Tamales

    Take a soaked corn husk and spread about 1/4 cup of the tamale dough onto the center of the husk. Leave some space at the bottom and sides.

  3. 7

    Add Filling

    Spoon 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto the center of the dough.

  4. 8

    Wrap the Tamale

    Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, then fold up the bottom of the husk to close the tamale. Secure it with a strip of husk or kitchen twine if needed.

Cook the Tamales

  1. 9

    Prepare Steamer

    Fill a large pot with water and place a steamer basket inside. Make sure the water doesn't touch the basket. Bring the water to a boil.

  2. 10

    Steam the Tamales

    Place the wrapped tamales upright in the steamer basket. Cover with a damp cloth and steam for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the masa pulls away from the husk easily.

  3. 11

    Serve

    Once cooked, remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your tamale with additional salsa or toppings as desired.

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