Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›The Chop House Grand Rapids›Hot Tamale Recipe

Hot Tamale Recipe

Inspired by The Chop House Grand Rapids
Time3h
Serves10

Make Hot Tamale Recipe in just 3h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tamale Dough

Filling

Wrapping

Method

Preparing the Dough

  1. 1

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Incorporate Shortening

    Add the vegetable shortening to the dry ingredients and mix with your hands or a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. 3

    Add Broth

    Gradually add the vegetable broth to the mixture, stirring until the dough is soft and pliable. Set aside.

Making the Filling

  1. 4

    Cook the Meat

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

  2. 5

    Add Vegetables and Spices

    Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. 6

    Season the Mixture

    Stir in the red chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Corn and Cheese

    Remove from heat and mix in the corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow to cool slightly.

Assembling the Tamales

  1. 8

    Prepare Corn Husks

    Soak the corn husks in hot water for about 30 minutes to soften. Drain and pat dry.

  2. 9

    Spread the Dough

    Take a corn husk and spread about ¼ cup of the tamale dough on the wide end, leaving about 1 inch of space at the edges.

  3. 10

    Add Filling

    Place 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the dough.

  4. 11

    Fold and Wrap

    Fold the sides of the husk in towards the center and then fold the bottom up. Repeat with remaining husks and dough.

Cooking the Tamales

  1. 12

    Prepare Steamer

    Fill a large pot with water and place a steamer basket inside. Bring to a simmer.

  2. 13

    Steam the Tamales

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

  3. 14

    Serve Hot

    Remove tamales from the steamer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite salsa!

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