How to Make Traditional Mexican Tamal de Piña

Tamal de Piña is a delightful traditional Mexican dish that combines the richness of masa with the sweetness of pineapple. This dessert tamale is perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat. If you're eager to learn how to make tamal de piña at home, follow this easy guide to create this delicious snack.

Ingredients Needed

To make authentic Tamal de Piña, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup milk (or coconut milk for a twist)
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ cup vegetable shortening
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
  • Banana leaves or corn husks for wrapping
  • Pinch of salt

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start making your tamales, it’s essential to prepare your ingredients properly:

  • Soak the corn husks or banana leaves in hot water for about 30 minutes to make them pliable.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
  • In another bowl, whip the vegetable shortening with sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Gradually add the masa mixture to the shortening mixture, alternating with milk until you achieve a smooth dough. Stir in the crushed pineapple gently, ensuring it's evenly distributed.

Assembling the Tamales

Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to assemble the tamales:

  1. Take a corn husk or banana leaf, lay it flat, and spread about 2 tablespoons of the masa mixture onto the center. Leave space at the edges for folding.
  2. Fold the sides over the masa mixture and then fold up the bottom to secure the filling inside. Repeat this process with the remaining masa and filling.

Cooking the Tamales

To cook your tamal de piña, follow these steps:

  1. Place a steamer pot over medium heat and fill it with water, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the steamer basket.
  2. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer, leaning them against each other for stability.
  3. Cover the tamales with a damp cloth and steam for approximately 50-60 minutes. Make sure to check the water level occasionally, adding more water as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, your tamal de piña should easily pull away from the husk. Serve them warm, drizzled with honey or topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Enjoy them as a dessert or a delightful snack at any time of the day!

Conclusion

Tamal de Piña is a traditional Mexican delicacy that brings sweet flavors and a chewy texture to your table. With this easy recipe, you can recreate this beloved treat in your own kitchen. Don't hesitate to experiment with additional fillings, such as nuts or coconut, to add your unique twist to this classic dish!