The Best Mexican Meat-Based Tamale Recipes to Try
Mexican tamales are a beloved dish with a rich history, originating from ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Traditionally, tamales consist of masa (a dough made from corn) filled with a variety of ingredients, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed. If you're looking to explore the best Mexican meat-based tamale recipes, you're in for a treat. Here are some delicious variations you can try at home.
1. Traditional Pork Tamales
One of the most popular types of tamales is the pork variety. To prepare traditional pork tamales, you’ll need to simmer pork shoulder in a combination of chili sauce, garlic, and spices until it becomes tender and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
Once the pork is cooked, shred it and mix with the chili sauce. Prepare your masa by mixing masa harina, broth, and spices. Spread masa on a corn husk, add the pork filling, and fold. Steam for 1-1.5 hours. Enjoy these savory tamales hot!
2. Beef Tamales
Beef tamales offer a hearty alternative to the traditional pork version. For these tamales, flavored beef is the star ingredient.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef brisket
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook the beef until tender and shred it. Combine with beef broth and chili powder for added flavor. Spread masa on a corn husk, fill with beef, and fold securely. Steam for 1-1.5 hours. These tamales are perfect for any gathering.
3. Chicken Tamales with Green Salsa
Chicken tamales provide a lighter option packed with flavor. Cooking the chicken with herbs and spices brings a burst of taste to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 cup green salsa
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cook the chicken thighs until fully cooked, then shred. Mix with green salsa to enhance the flavor. Follow the same method to prepare the masa, wrap the filling in corn husks, and steam for 1-1.5 hours. Serve with extra green salsa for a delicious kick!
4. Spicy Chorizo Tamales
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, chorizo tamales are a must-try. The spiced pork sausage adds a kick that makes these tamales unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chorizo sausage
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cook the chorizo until browned and crumbly. Combine it with masa prepared with the broth. Fill the husks, fold, and steam for 1-1.5 hours. These spicy tamales pair well with sour cream or avocado!
5. Combination Tamales
Feeling adventurous? Why not mix and match meats to create combination tamales! A blend of pork, chicken, and beef offers a taste explosion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork shoulder (cooked and shredded)
- 1 pound chicken (cooked and shredded)
- 1 pound beef (cooked and shredded)
- 2 cups masa harina
- Spices and sauces of your choice
Combine all three meats with your favorite spices. Use a generous amount of masa to accommodate the multiple fillings. Wrap, steam for 1-1.5 hours, and dive into this hearty feast!
Whether you're craving traditional flavors or looking to spice