How To Make Tamales

This is a long steam and water level will drop as the water boils off.

How to make tamales. Use the back of a spoon to spread 2 to 2 tablespoons of masa dough from the bottom 1 3 center of the husk to the right edge see photo below. Place a large steamer basket in a 6 quart stockpot over 1 in. Steam them in a large steamer for 90 minutes. Bring the water to a boil. Use rubber gloves to remove stems and seeds from the chile pods.

Next prepare the tamale fillings that you are going to use. To make a tamale hold a corn husk in your non dominant hand or place on a flat clean surface and make sure the wider edge is facing you. Start by preparing the dough. Transfer the chiles and water to a blender and blend until smooth. Tamales are made by steaming typically on the stovetop but you can also insert a strainer basket into your pressure cooker or slow cooker and steam your tamales that way.

Let them steam covered until the dough peels away from the husk about 45 minutes. Place the tamales upright in the steamer. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes then remove from heat to cool. Make and steam your tamales. Place chiles in a saucepan with 2 cups of water.