Oaxacan Tamales

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

1. Step 1

   To start your tamale-making adventure, grab a large bowl and beat 9 ounces of lard with an electric mixer until it’s creamy and fluffy.

2. Step 2

   Next, sprinkle in some salt and keep mixing for a few minutes to ensure it’s well blended.

3. Step 3

   Now, it’s time to introduce the masa harina to the lard mixture.

4. Step 4

   Add it gradually, beating thoroughly until everything is fully combined and smooth.

5. Step 5

   Slowly pour in warm chicken broth, adding about 1/4 cup at a time.

6. Step 6

   Keep mixing until the masa reaches a soft, workable consistency that resembles cookie dough; you’ll likely use around 3/4 cup of broth in total.

7. Step 7

   To check if your masa is ready, drop a small ball into a glass of cold water.

8. Step 8

   If it floats, you’re good to go! If it sinks, just keep mixing until it floats.

9. Step 9

   Now, let’s whip up a delicious tomatillo sauce.

10. Step 10

    In a blender, combine tomatillos, ancho chile pepper, mulato chile pepper, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and oregano.

11. Step 11

    Blend until the mixture is smooth and vibrant.

12. Step 12

    In a skillet, heat the remaining 2 ounces of lard over medium heat and pour in your tomatillo sauce.

13. Step 13

    Cook it for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

14. Step 14

    Stir in shredded chicken and a splash of the remaining chicken broth, then let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until the filling thickens beautifully.

15. Step 15

    As you prepare to assemble your tamales, take a banana leaf and spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the masa mixture onto it, leaving about 2 inches from the bottom and 1/4 inch from the top.

16. Step 16

    Place a tablespoon of the savory chicken filling right in the center of the masa.

17. Step 17

    Now, fold the sides of the banana leaf over the filling, then tuck the bottom of the leaf over the seam and secure it with kitchen string.

18. Step 18

    Repeat this delightful process with the rest of your banana leaves and filling.

19. Step 19

    For the final step, set up a steamer insert in a large saucepan and fill it with water just below the bottom of the steamer.

20. Step 20

    Bring the water to a boil, then carefully add your tamales with the open side facing up.

21. Step 21

    Steam them for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the filling is heated through and easily separates from the leaf.

22. Step 22

    Once they’re done, let the tamales rest for about 15 minutes before serving.

23. Step 23

    Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor the rich flavors of your homemade tamales!.