How to steam tamales correctly?

Question

Learn how to wrap and steam tamales for even cooking and moist texture.

Answer 1

To steam tamales correctly, stand them upright in a steamer basket above simmering water, ensuring the water doesn't touch the tamales. Steam for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the masa pulls away easily from the corn husk.

Detailed Explanation:

Steaming tamales properly is crucial for achieving the right texture and ensuring they are fully cooked. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Steamer: Use a large pot with a steamer basket. Add water to the pot, ensuring the water level is below the steamer basket. You don't want the tamales sitting in the water.
2. Arrange the Tamales: Stand the tamales upright in the steamer basket, leaning them against each other for support. This allows steam to circulate evenly around each tamale. If you don't have enough tamales to fill the steamer, you can use crumpled aluminum foil or extra corn husks to fill the gaps and keep the tamales upright.
3. Cover and Steam: Cover the pot tightly with a lid. Bring the water to a simmer (not a rolling boil) and maintain a consistent simmer throughout the steaming process.
4. Check for Doneness: Steam for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the masa pulls away easily from the corn husk. To test for doneness, carefully remove one tamale and unwrap it. The masa should be firm and not sticky. If it's still wet or sticky, continue steaming for another 15-20 minutes and check again.
5. Rest Before Serving: Once the tamales are cooked, turn off the heat and let them rest in the steamer for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the masa to firm up a bit more.

Pro Tip:

To prevent the tamales from drying out during steaming, place a layer of damp corn husks or a clean kitchen towel on top of the tamales before covering the pot with the lid. This helps to trap moisture and keep the tamales moist and tender.