Tantalizing Tamales: Chicken and Cheese Delights
Tantalizing Tamales: Chicken and Cheese Delights
Introduction
Welcome to a culinary journey through the world of tamales, a dish that embodies the spirit of Mexican cooking. Tamales are a beloved traditional Central and South American food, featuring a corn-based dough wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and filled with a variety of ingredients. Our focus today will be on two classic varieties—chicken and cheese. These tamales are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive celebration or a comforting dinner at home. Get ready to wrap your taste buds in a delightful experience!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large Mixing Bowls
- Steamer or Large Pot with Steamer Insert
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Wooden Spoon
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 3 hours
Ingredients
- 450g (4 cups) masa harina
- 10g (2 tsp) baking powder
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt
- 120g (1/2 cup) rendered lard or vegetable shortening
- 720ml (3 cups) chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
- 500g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 10g (2 tsp) ground cumin
- 30ml (2 tbsp) lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 300g (10 oz) queso fresco or mild cheddar, shredded
- 3 Jalapeños, seeded and chopped (optional)
- 30 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Masa
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the masa harina, baking powder, and sea salt. In another bowl, beat the lard or shortening until light and fluffy. Gradually add the masa harina mixture to the lard, alternating with the warm broth. Mix thoroughly until the dough is soft and retains its shape when pressed in your hand. Cover and set aside to rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
For the chicken filling, mix the shredded chicken with ground cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
To prepare the cheese filling, combine the shredded queso fresco or cheddar with chopped jalapeños in a separate bowl.
Step 3: Assemble the Tamales
Drain the soaked corn husks and pat them dry. Lay out a husk, smooth side up, and place about 60g (1/4 cup) of masa dough in the center. Spread it into a rectangle, leaving a border around the edges. Add about 30g (2 tbsp) of your chosen filling (either chicken or cheese) in the center. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up, securing the tamale. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Step 4: Steam the Tamales
Position the tamales upright in a steamer or a pot with a steamer insert, ensuring they do not touch the water. Cover with a damp cloth and steam over medium heat for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. When finished, the masa should be firm and pull away easily from the husk.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the tamales using tongs, allowing them to cool slightly before serving. Pair your tamales with salsa, guacamole, or crema for a complete meal. Enjoy these flavorful bites that capture the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine!
Conclusion
With a bit of patience and practice, crafting tamales can become a cherished ritual in your culinary repertoire. These tamales, bursting with delicious fillings and rich masa, offer a taste of tradition that connects you to a world of flavors. Whether you enjoy them solo or share them at gatherings, the magic of tamales lies in their ability to bring people together. Embrace the joy of homemade tamales and savor every bite, knowing you’ve created a dish laden with love and heritage.
