Tamales are a warm, comforting, and flavorful Mexican classic made with soft masa dough and tasty fillings, all steamed in corn husks. While traditional tamales can take time, this beginner-friendly version breaks the process into easy steps so you can make tamales that are tender, tasty, and totally worth it.
⭐ Ingredients
For the masa dough:
4 cups masa harina (corn masa flour)
2 ½–3 cups warm broth (chicken or veggie)
1 cup softened butter or neutral oil
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
For the filling (choose one or mix):
Chicken:
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup mild or medium salsa
Beef:
2 cups cooked, shredded beef
1 cup enchilada sauce or tomato sauce
Vegetarian:
1 can black beans, drained
1 cup corn
1 cup shredded cheese
½ teaspoon cumin
Other:
20–25 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water for 30 minutes)
🥣 How to Make the Masa Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
Add softened butter or oil and mix until crumbly.
Pour warm broth a little at a time while mixing.
The dough should be soft, spreadable, and slightly fluffy.
Test the dough: roll a small ball and place it in water—if it floats, it’s ready!
🌯 Prepare the Filling
Mix your chosen filling with either salsa or sauce so it stays moist inside the tamale.
Keep the filling warm or at room temperature for easier spreading.
🌽 How to Assemble Tamales
Lay out a soaked corn husk, smooth side up.
Spread 2 tablespoons of masa dough onto the upper half of the husk, forming a rectangle.
Add 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
Fold the sides of the husk inward to cover the filling.
Fold the bottom of the husk upward like a little envelope.
Place seam-side down on a plate and repeat.
🥘 Steam the Tamales
Fill a large pot with a couple of inches of water.
Add a steamer basket or rack.
Place tamales upright, open end facing up.
Cover with a lid, place a towel underneath the lid to avoid dripping, and steam for 60–75 minutes.
Add more water as needed so the pot doesn’t dry out.
Tamales are done when:
The masa pulls away easily from the husk
The texture feels firm but tender
😋 Serving Suggestions
Enjoy tamales with:
Salsa
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Avocado slices
Rice and beans
A squeeze of lime
They’re great for dinner, lunchboxes, parties, or family gatherings.
🧊 Storage Tips
Fridge: Up to 5 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months
Reheat: Steam for 10–15 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel