How to Make Pork Tamales
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How to Make Pork Tamales

H-E-B Chef Charlotte shows us how to make simple pork tamales—her favorite Texas tradition. Watch her step-by-step guide and start your own tamale tradition.

To make tamales you will need the following items, available at H-E-B:

  • Baking sheet pan
  • Aluminum foil
  • Tongs
  • Spoon and fork
  • Liquid measuring cup
  • Measuring spoon
  • Blender or food processor
  • Large heavy bottom pot, such as a Dutch oven
  • Large bowl
  • Tamale steamer
  • Electric roaster (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions



Plan ahead

Before you begin cooking, you need to soften the corn husks by submerging in cold water and soaking for 3-24 hours.

Tip: Use a bowl as a weight on top of the corn husks to completely submerge.
 
 

Step 1: Prepare the tomatillo sauce

The tomatillo sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated.
 


Step 2: Prepare the pork tamale filling

Tip: To keep the pork filling moist, add the braised liquid from the pot to the filling.
 
 

Step 3a: How to assemble tamales

Tear cornhusk threads. These will be used later to secure the tamales once rolled.

Place 1 tablespoon masa on smooth side of corn husk and spread.
 


Step 3b: How to assemble tamales

Place 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling down masa center and roll tamale like a jelly roll.
 
 

Step 3c: How to assemble tamales

Fold tail over and place tamale tail-side down, then securely tie with a thread.
 


Step 4: Steam the tamales

Place tamales in steamer open side up. Cover, turn to medium-high heat, and cook for 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the thickness of the tamale. You may need to add more water during the steaming process.
 
 

Step 5: Keep tamales warm and serve with your favorite condiments

Keep cooked tamales warm for serving in an electric roaster.

Condiment ideas:
  • Chili and shredded cheese
  • Queso
  • Salsa
  • Pico de gallo
  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped lettuce and tomatoes
  • Chopped cilantro and onions
  • H-E-B That Green Sauce, H-E-B That Red Sauce
    or H-E-B Relish That Corn

Make these delicious tamales. See Pork, Serrano and Garlic Tamale Recipe

 

Prep Time: 3 h 30 m
Total Time: 8 h 30 m
Serves 12