Corn Husk Steamed Mexican Dough With Fillings
Mexican cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, spices, and unique food preparations that are enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. Among these delicacies, tamales or corn husk steamed Mexican dough with fillings is one of the most popular and beloved dishes. Tamales are made by wrapping a masa dough, usually made from corn, around a filling and steaming it in a corn husk wrapper. They can be filled with various ingredients like meats, cheeses, beans, vegetables, and even sweet fillings like fruits and chocolate. In this article, we will talk about the history and tradition of tamales, how to make them, and some delicious recipes to try at home.
The History and Tradition of Tamales
The history of tamales goes back to the pre-Columbian era of Mexico, where they were considered an essential food source for travelers and warriors. The Aztecs and Mayans were among the first to make tamales, and they were often filled with beans or meats and wrapped in corn husks, which acted as a natural preservative. The Spanish conquest of Mexico spread the popularity of tamales throughout the region, and they became a staple food for many Mexican families, especially for celebrations and religious events.
Today, tamales are not only popular in Mexico but also in many Latin American countries and the United States, where they have become a symbol of Mexican culture and cuisine.
How to Make Tamales
Making tamales can seem intimidating for beginners, but it is a fairly simple process that requires only a few ingredients and some patience. Here are the basic steps to make tamales:
- Soak the corn husks in warm water for about an hour until they become pliable and soft.
- Prepare the filling by cooking your desired ingredients, like meat or beans, with spices and sauce.
- Make the masa dough by combining masa harina, lard or butter, baking powder, and broth or water. Mix well until the dough becomes soft and fluffy.
- Assemble the tamales by spreading the masa dough onto the corn husks, adding the fillings, and folding the husks into a neat package.
- Steam the tamales for about an hour until they are cooked through and the filling is hot and tender.
- Serve the tamales with your favorite toppings, like salsa, sour cream, cheese, or cilantro.
There are different variations of tamales, depending on the region and the filling ingredients. Some tamales are made with sweet masa dough and filled with fruits like pineapple or strawberry, while others are made with spicy meat and chili pepper filling. However, the basic process of making tamales remains the same.
Recipes for Corn Husk Steamed Mexican Dough with Fillings
If you want to try making tamales at home, here are some delicious recipes to get you started:
Chicken and Green Chile Tamales
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, green chile, and cheese for a savory and spicy filling that goes well with the sweet masa dough. You will need:
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup lard or butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 can of diced green chiles
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 20-25 corn husks
Follow the steps above to make the tamales, using the chicken and green chile filling. Steam the tamales for about 50-60 minutes until they are cooked through. Serve with salsa and sour cream.
Sweet Corn and Strawberry Tamales
This recipe uses fresh corn and strawberries to create a sweet and fruity filling that is perfect for a dessert or breakfast tamale. You will need:
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 1/2 cups water or milk
- 1/2 cup butter or vegetable shortening
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 20-25 corn husks
Combine the masa harina, water, butter, and baking powder in a large bowl until the dough becomes soft and pliable. In another bowl, mix the corn, strawberries, sugar, and vanilla to create the filling. Follow the steps above to assemble and steam the tamales, using the sweet corn and strawberry filling. Serve with whipped cream or honey.
Conclusion
Tamales are a delicious and versatile dish that represents the rich history and culture of Mexico. Whether you prefer savory or sweet fillings, there is a tamale recipe that will satisfy your taste buds. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can make tamales at home and enjoy them with your family and friends. So go ahead and try this traditional Mexican delicacy, and experience the flavors and aromas of this beloved dish.
