Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 can of coconut milk (13.5 oz)
- 1 cup of sweet corn kernels
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of baking powder
- 16-20 corn husks
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for steaming
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Kitchen scissors
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until they are pliable.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the water, vegetable shortening, and sugar until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the coconut milk, until a smooth dough forms.
5. Fold in the sweet corn kernels.
6. Drain the corn husks and pat them dry.
7. Take a corn husk and spread about 1/4 cup of the dough mixture onto the center of the husk, leaving a border of about 1 inch on the sides.
8. Roll the husk tightly around the dough, tucking in the ends.
9. Repeat with the remaining husks and dough mixture.
10. Arrange the tamales in a steamer basket, standing them upright with the open end facing up.
11. Add enough water to the pot to reach just below the steamer basket.
12. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for 45-60 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and firm.
13. Remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
Temperature:
Steaming temperature: 212°F (100°C)
Serving size:
Makes 16-20 tamales
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Total fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total carbohydrates: 26g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable shortening can be substituted with lard or butter.
- Sweet corn kernels can be substituted with canned or frozen corn.
Variations:
- Add shredded coconut or raisins to the dough mixture for extra flavor.
- Use banana leaves instead of corn husks for a different presentation.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is not too dry or too wet. It should be pliable and easy to spread onto the corn husks.
- To prevent the tamales from unraveling during steaming, tie them with a strip of corn husk or kitchen twine.
- Serve the tamales with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the tamales in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat refrigerated tamales, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- To reheat frozen tamales, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the same reheating instructions as above.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the tamales on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños.
- Serve the tamales with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
Pairings:
- Mexican beer
- Margaritas
- Sangria
Suggested side dishes:
- Black beans and rice
- Grilled vegetables
- Tomato and avocado salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add more water or coconut milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the tamales are falling apart during steaming, make sure they are tightly rolled and tied with a strip of corn husk or kitchen twine.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to soak the corn husks in warm water before using them to prevent them from breaking during rolling.
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw dough and ingredients.
Food history:
- Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish that dates back to pre-Columbian times. They were often used as portable food for soldiers and travelers.
Flavor profiles:
- Maja Maíz Tamales are sweet and savory, with a subtle coconut flavor and a hint of sweetness from the sugar.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the tamales hot with your favorite garnishes and side dishes.
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Region: Mexican