Cuisines : Tamales - how to prepare this food item

 

Tamales are a popular Latin American dish made of masa (a dough made from corn) that's usually filled with various ingredients, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed. Here's a basic recipe for making chicken tamales:

Ingredients:

For the Masa:

- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or lard

- 1 tsp baking powder

- Salt to taste

For the Filling:

- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

- 1/2 cup red or green salsa

- 1/2 cup sliced olives (optional)

- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)

For Assembling:

- Dried corn husks, soaked in warm water to soften

- String or strips of corn husks to tie the tamales

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, chicken broth, vegetable oil or lard, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until you have a smooth, pliable dough. If the dough is too dry, you can add a bit more broth.

2. In another bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the salsa and any optional fillings like olives and bell peppers.

3. Take a softened corn husk and spread a small amount of masa dough onto the center, leaving space at the edges.

4. Add a spoonful of the chicken mixture on top of the masa.

5. Carefully fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, then fold up the bottom. Tie the tamale with a strip of corn husk to secure it.

6. Continue assembling tamales until you've used up all the masa and filling.

7. Place a steamer basket in a large pot, and add enough water to steam the tamales without touching the basket. Arrange the tamales upright in the basket.

8. Cover the tamales with a few more softened corn husks and a clean cloth. This helps keep the steam inside.

9. Put a lid on the pot and steam the tamales for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the masa is cooked and firm.

10. To check if the tamales are done, remove one and let it cool for a few minutes. If it peels away from the husk easily and has a firm texture, they're ready.

11. Allow the tamales to cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them as is or with additional salsa or toppings.

Enjoy your homemade chicken tamales! You can also get creative with various fillings, such as pork, cheese, or vegetables, to suit your preferences.