Aunt Mary'S Tamales
Aunt Mary's tamales feature flavorful seasoned meat wrapped in cornmeal dough, steamed to perfection. Perfect for family gatherings, they offer a comforting, traditional taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together ground beef, sausage, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Form the meat mixture into small 1/2 x 2-inch servings.
- Combine self-rising cornmeal and hot water to form a non-sticky mixture.
- Scoop enough cornmeal mixture to cover each meat serving.
- Wrap the cornmeal and meat in softened tamale papers and tie with string in the middle.
- Drop the wrapped tamales into boiling water and cook for 35 minutes.
- Serve with chili or alone with mustard.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions and garlic to the meat mixture. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the cayenne pepper or use a milder chili powder. You can substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Ensure the cornmeal mixture is moist enough to hold together; adjust the hot water as needed. For a unique twist, try adding some cheese to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
These tamales are delicious served with a side of Mexican Hot Chili or a fresh salad like Stephanie'S Taco Salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, top your tamales with salsa or guacamole. They can also be enjoyed on their own or with mustard for a unique twist. Pair with a refreshing drink like horchata or agua fresca for a delightful meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tamales can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, steam them for about 15-20 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. You can also freeze tamales for longer storage; simply wrap them tightly before placing them in a freezer bag. Reheat frozen tamales in a steamer or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Tamales contains roughly 101 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! You can customize the filling by using shredded chicken, pork, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or cheese. Each variation will give a different flavor profile, allowing you to enjoy these tamales in multiple ways. Just adjust the seasoning to complement the meat you choose.
How do I know when the tamales are fully cooked?
Tamales are fully cooked when the masa pulls away easily from the tamale paper. After boiling for 35 minutes, you can also cut one open to check that the filling is hot and cooked through. If you're unsure, you can steam them a bit longer until they reach the desired doneness.
Can I make these tamales ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamales in advance! Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before cooking. Just remember to steam or microwave them longer if they are frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).