How to heat up tamales

After a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, you might find yourself with a handful of leftover tamales sitting quietly in your fridge. As the craving for that flavorful masa wrapped around a heartwarming filling hits you, you may wonder about the best way to heat them up without sacrificing their delightful texture and taste. The goal is simple: revive those delicious morsels to their original glory, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as when they were freshly made. Let’s explore the best methods to heat up tamales to achieve that perfect balance of warmth and moisture.

To heat up tamales, the best methods include using a steamer, microwave, or oven. For optimal texture, steaming is recommended, but microwaving and baking are also effective.

1. Steaming: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the tamales in a steamer basket or lay them flat in the pot if you don’t have a basket. Cover with a damp cloth or wrap them in aluminum foil to trap moisture. Steam for about 15-20 minutes if they’re thawed (or 30-40 minutes if they’re frozen) until they’re heated through.

2. Microwave: If you’re short on time, the microwave is a convenient option. Place the tamales on a microwave-safe plate, add a few tablespoons of water, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes for thawed tamales, or 3-5 minutes for frozen tamales, checking periodically to ensure they’re heated evenly.

3. Oven: For an option that results in crispy edges, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tamales in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warm throughout.

Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature and enjoy your delicious tamales, warmed to perfection!