Authentic Mexican Tamales with Beans and Cheese
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Steamer pot
- Corn husks
Ingredients
For the masa:
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 ½ cups water warm
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn husks soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
Instructions
Prepare the masa:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable.2 cups masa harina, 1 1/2 cups water, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Prepare the filling:
- In a separate bowl, mix refried beans, shredded cheese, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.1 1/2 cups refried beans, 1 cup shredded cheese, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, Salt and pepper to taste
Assemble the tamales:
- Lay out a soaked corn husk. Spread a small amount of masa dough in the center, forming a rectangle.Corn husks
- Spoon a tablespoon of the bean and cheese mixture onto the masa.
- Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, then fold up the bottom end. Tie with a strip of corn husk if necessary.
Steam the tamales:
- Place the assembled tamales upright in a steamer pot. Steam over medium heat for about 1 hour, or until the masa is firm and cooked through.
Serve:
- Remove tamales from the steamer and let cool slightly. Serve warm.
Notes
Tamales can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and reheated by steaming or microwaving.
Nutrition
Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements
Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases