Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the heart of Mexico? Then get ready to make these incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy Mexican Green Tamales! This recipe is perfect for a fun weekend project, a festive gathering, or even a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Forget takeout – homemade tamales are easier than you think, and the satisfaction of creating these flavorful bundles is unparalleled.
Ingredients:
For the Masa (Corn Dough):
- 4 cups Maseca corn flour (instant masa harina)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup warm water
- ½ cup lard or vegetable shortening (for a richer flavor, use lard)
For the Salsa Verde (Green Sauce):
- 2 pounds tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 4-6 serrano peppers, stemmed (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 medium white onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cumin
For the Filling:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cooked and shredded (or use leftover roast chicken)
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup chopped onion
For Assembly:
- 2 dozen dried corn husks (dried corn leaves)
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Preparing the Corn Husks:
- Soak the dried corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes, or until pliable. This step is crucial for easy wrapping.
Making the Salsa Verde:
- Combine tomatillos, serrano peppers, onion, garlic, and chicken broth in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and cumin. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Preparing the Masa Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the Maseca corn flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the warm water and chicken broth to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Stir in the lard or shortening until fully incorporated. The dough should be spreadable but not runny. Let the mixture rest for about 15 minutes.
Assembling the Tamales:
- Lay a softened corn husk flat, with the wide end facing you.
- Spread a thin layer of masa dough (about 2-3 tablespoons) onto the husk, leaving about an inch of space at the wide end and a slightly smaller margin at the narrow end.
- Add a spoonful of the shredded pork (or chicken) and salsa verde mixture to the center of the masa.
- Fold the sides of the husk inward, then fold the wide end over the filling to create a closed package. Repeat with the remaining husks, filling and masa.
Steaming the Tamales:
- Place the assembled tamales standing upright in a large steamer basket or pot fitted with a steamer rack. Make sure the husks are not sticking out over the sides of the pot to avoid burning.
- Add about an inch of water to the bottom of the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and steam for 60-75 minutes, or until the masa is cooked through and easily peels away from the husk.
Serving:
- Carefully remove the tamales from the steamer. Let them cool slightly before peeling back the husk and enjoying! Serve warm with your favorite toppings, like extra salsa verde, sour cream, guacamole, or shredded cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of serrano peppers in the salsa verde to control the heat level. For milder tamales, use jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes from the serranos.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or black beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Cheese Tamales: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese to the filling for extra flavor and richness.
- Make Ahead: Tamales can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or steamer before serving.
Nutritional Information (per tamale, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy the delicious results of your hard work! These homemade Mexican Green Tamales are a true testament to the power of simple ingredients and careful preparation, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations. Happy cooking!