Authentic Pork Tamales

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Pork Tamales.

1. Step 1

   Begin by gathering all your ingredients and setting up a clean workspace to ensure a smooth cooking process.

2. Step 2

   For the filling, take a Dutch oven and combine the pork loin, halved onion, and garlic.

3. Step 3

   Pour in enough water to fully submerge the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.

4. Step 4

   Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about two hours, or until the pork is tender and fully cooked.

5. Step 5

   While the pork simmers, turn your attention to the chile sauce.

6. Step 6

   Donning rubber gloves, carefully remove the stems and seeds from the chiles.

7. Step 7

   Place the cleaned chiles in a saucepan with two cups of water and let them simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

8. Step 8

   After simmering, take the saucepan off the heat and allow the chiles to cool.

9. Step 9

   Next, transfer the chiles along with their cooking water to a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.

10. Step 10

    Strain this mixture into a bowl, adding salt to taste, and set the sauce aside for later use.

11. Step 11

    Once the pork is cooked, shred it and mix it with one cup of the prepared chile sauce, reserving the rest for serving.

12. Step 12

    Now, prepare the corn husks by soaking them in warm water for about 30 minutes until they soften.

13. Step 13

    While the husks soak, whip the lard with one tablespoon of the pork broth until it becomes fluffy.

14. Step 14

    In a separate bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt, then gradually mix this dry blend into the lard, adding more broth as needed to create a light, spongy dough.

15. Step 15

    After soaking, remove the husks from the water and pat them dry.

16. Step 16

    Spread a generous layer of masa dough over each husk, about a quarter to half an inch thick.

17. Step 17

    Place a tablespoon of the pork filling in the center of each husk, then fold the sides, top, and bottom toward the center to encase the filling securely.

18. Step 18

    Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer basket, placing the basket over simmering water.

19. Step 19

    Steam the tamales for approximately one hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

20. Step 20

    Once cooked, carefully peel the tamales from their husks.

21. Step 21

    Drizzle the remaining chile sauce over the top and add a dollop of sour cream, or mix the sour cream into the sauce for a creamy finish.

22. Step 22

    Serve your tamales alongside your favorite sides and savor the delightful flavors of this traditional dish.

23. Step 23

    Enjoy every bite!.