Custrd is out on the App Store — Download it free →
Back to recipes

Corn Husk Wrapped Tamales

Steamed corn dough wrapped in corn husks, a classic Mexican comfort food. This simple version uses a flavorful masa filling and is perfect for a weekend project.

Total time
100 min
Servings
6
Calories
350
Protein
6g
Corn Husk Wrapped Tamales
Comfort FoodFestiveMexicanVegetarianPlant-basedSoftMoistHoliday

Ingredients

  • 12 whole corn husks
  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup vegetable shortening
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup salsa roja

Instructions

  1. 1

    Soak the 12 corn husks in hot water until pliable, about 30 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, beat the 3/4 cup shortening with a mixer until fluffy, about 2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add the 2 cups masa harina, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt to the bowl. Mix until crumbly.

  4. 4

    Gradually pour in the 1.5 cups chicken broth, mixing until a soft, spreadable dough forms. It should be like thick hummus.

  5. 5

    Spread about 2 tablespoons of masa dough onto the center of each husk, leaving a 1-inch border.

  6. 6

    Top each with 1 tablespoon of the 1 cup salsa roja. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold up the bottom.

  7. 7

    Place the tamales upright in a steamer basket. Steam over boiling water, covered, until the dough pulls away from the husk easily, about 1 hour.

  8. 8

    Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Unwrap and enjoy warm.

Tools you’ll need

  • Large bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Steamer basket
  • Large pot with lid

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is a free iOS app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations.