Here's a classic recipe for making chicken tamales:
Ingredients:
For the masa dough:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn masa flour)
- 1 1/3 cups chicken broth (warm)
- 2/3 cup lard or vegetable shortening
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A package of dried corn husks (soaked in warm water to soften)
For the chicken filling:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup red or green salsa (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the corn husks: Soak the dried corn husks in warm water for about 1 to 2 hours until they are soft and pliable. Rinse them and pat dry before using.
Make the masa dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the warm chicken broth and lard (or vegetable shortening) until smooth. Gradually add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well until you get a soft, spreadable dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth to keep it moist.
Prepare the chicken filling: In a skillet, warm the shredded chicken and mix it with the salsa, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.
Assemble the tamales: Take a soaked corn husk, pat it dry, and spread a thin layer of masa dough (about 1/4 inch thick) on the wider end of the husk, leaving some space around the edges. Add a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of the masa.
Fold and steam the tamales: Fold the sides of the corn husk toward the center, encasing the filling. Fold the pointed end of the husk over the seam side of the tamale. Arrange the tamales vertically in a steamer basket, open side up. Steam the tamales for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the masa is fully cooked and easily separates from the husks.
Serve: Let the tamales cool slightly before unwrapping them. Serve with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken tamales! You can also get creative with the fillings and try other variations, such as pork, beef, cheese, or sweet tamales with fruits and cinnamon.