How to cook tamales

As the holiday season approaches, many families find themselves reminiscing about cherished traditions and the mouthwatering foods that accompany them. Among these delights, tamales stand out as a beloved staple, often bringing together loved ones for a day of preparation and celebration. However, for those new to the process or looking to perfect their technique, the question arises: how can one cook tamales successfully? Whether you’re eager to impress your guests or simply want to enjoy them at home, understanding the proper cooking methods is essential.

To cook tamales, steam them upright in a steamer pot for 1 to 1.5 hours, ensuring they’re covered with a wet cloth to keep moist.

Cooking tamales is both an art and a science, requiring attention to detail for perfect results. Start by preparing your tamales, filling them with your choice of meats, cheeses, or vegetables, and wrapping them tightly in corn husks. Once assembled, you’ll want to fill a large steamer pot with water, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom of the tamales when they are placed in the basket. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer, with the open end facing up. Cover them with a damp cloth or additional corn husks to trap the steam and keep them moist.

Steam the tamales over medium-high heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the water hasn’t evaporated too much–add more if necessary. They are done when the masa (dough) easily pulls away from the corn husk. Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite salsas or sides. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the joy of sharing this culinary tradition!