Authentic Pork Tamales

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

1. Step 1

   To start your tamale-making adventure, soak the corn husks in water for a full 24 hours.

2. Step 2

   To keep them submerged, place a heavy object on top—this will ensure they soften perfectly.

3. Step 3

   Next, let’s prepare the flavorful pork filling.

4. Step 4

   In a dry skillet over medium heat, dry roast the guajillo chile peppers for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side until they become fragrant.

5. Step 5

   Once they’re aromatic, pour water over the chiles and let them simmer for about 2 minutes until they’re tender.

6. Step 6

   Carefully remove the chiles and transfer them to a blender.

7. Step 7

   Now, add beef broth, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, vinegar, cloves, salt, cumin, allspice, and pepper to the blender.

8. Step 8

   Blend everything together until you achieve a smooth, rich marinade.

9. Step 9

   Now it’s time to bring the pork to life! Place the pork butt in a slow cooker and pour that delicious marinade over it.

10. Step 10

    Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 4 to 5 hours, or until the pork is so tender that it shreds easily with a fork.

11. Step 11

    Once it’s ready, shred the pork and mix it back into the slow cooker with the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

12. Step 12

    While the pork is cooking, let’s whip up the masa dough.

13. Step 13

    In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine masa, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt.

14. Step 14

    Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re well mixed.

15. Step 15

    Then, add in beef broth and lard, whisking until the mixture becomes fluffy and slightly tacky—this is the perfect texture for your tamales.

16. Step 16

    Now, let’s assemble these delightful treats! Take a corn husk and pat it dry.

17. Step 17

    Spread a generous layer of the masa dough in the center, leaving some space around the edges.

18. Step 18

    Next, add a line of that savory pork filling right down the center.

19. Step 19

    Fold the bottom of the husk up, then bring one side over the filling.

20. Step 20

    Tuck that edge under the filling and dough, and roll it towards the other edge to seal everything in.

21. Step 21

    Fold the top down and secure it with kitchen string, wrapping it twice to keep it snug.

22. Step 22

    Repeat this process with the remaining tamales, feeling the excitement build as you create each one.

23. Step 23

    For the final step, grab a large saucepan and place a steamer insert inside.

24. Step 24

    Fill the pan with water just below the bottom of the steamer, then bring it to a boil.

25. Step 25

    Once the water is bubbling, carefully place the tamales vertically in the steamer basket, making sure the sealed edges are facing down.

26. Step 26

    Cover the pot and steam the tamales for about an hour, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

27. Step 27

    When they’re done, serve them hot and enjoy the fruits of your labor—each bite is a warm hug of flavor!.