Beef Or Pork Tamales
Savory tamales filled with tender meat and rich chili flavors, ideal for festive occasions or family dinners, showcasing traditional Mexican culinary craftsmanship.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the white lard until it is very soft.
- Add the flour little by little, and continue beating either by hand or with a mixer.
- Add broth from cooking the meat as needed, along with salt, baking powder, and cumin.
- Keep the dough soft but not too wet.
- Soak the corn husks in hot water and rinse them well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of beef and pork, or even shredded rotisserie chicken as a substitute for the meat. If you can't find lard, vegetable shortening can work in a pinch, but it may alter the texture slightly. Adjust the number of dried chilies based on your heat preference, and feel free to add spices like garlic powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tamales with a side of Ralph Gragg's Salsa (Makes Enough For All Of Your Friends) for a zesty complement. They also pair well with sides like Mexican rice or refried beans. For a refreshing touch, add a simple salad or some avocado slices. Enjoy them with a warm cup of hot chocolate or horchata for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftover tamales to cool completely before storing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, steam them for about 15-20 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Or Pork Tamales contains roughly 2235 calories, with 74g protein, 350g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and protein (147% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1993mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
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 masa harina instead of corn flour for tamales?
Yes, masa harina is the traditional choice for tamales and will yield a more authentic texture and flavor. Just ensure you follow the correct hydration levels in your recipe, as masa harina may absorb moisture differently than corn flour.
How can I make my tamales spicier?
To increase the heat, add more dried chilies to the meat filling or incorporate some spicy salsa into the dough. You can also serve them with a side of Spicy Bean Salsa to enhance the overall flavor experience.
What can I do with leftover tamale filling?
Leftover filling can be turned into a delicious burrito or taco filling. Simply wrap it in a tortilla with your favorite toppings, or mix it into scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast. Alternatively, it can be frozen for later use in other Mexican recipes.
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).