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Mexican Tamales

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Mexican Tamales are a beloved dish that brings friends and family together for a fun and flavorful cooking experience. These delightful bundles are wrapped in corn husks and filled with savory beef, all enveloped in fluffy masa dough. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy weeknight dinner, these tamales offer a rich taste of traditional Mexican cuisine. Plus, making them can be a memorable activity to share with loved ones, creating delicious moments that last long after the meal is over.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ounces guajillo chiles
  • 3 ounces ancho chiles
  • 2 ½ pounds boneless beef shoulder
  • 8 ¼ cups masa harina
  • 7 cups chicken broth
  • 50 corn husks
  • Hot water (as needed)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 3 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 ¾ tablespoons fine salt
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 ¾ cups canola or avocado oil

Instructions

  1. Soak corn husks in hot water for about an hour to soften.
  2. Combine guajillo and ancho chiles in a pot with water; boil until soft. Blend into a smooth sauce.
  3. Sear seasoned beef chunks in a Dutch oven until browned, then add the chile sauce and bay leaf; simmer until tender.
  4. Mix masa harina, salt, baking powder, and oil; gradually add broth until the dough reaches a spreadable consistency.
  5. Assemble tamales by spreading masa on corn husks and placing the beef filling in the center; fold tightly.
  6. Steam tamales vertically in a steamer pot for about 2 hours until cooked through.

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