Tamales are a traditional Mexican food that has spread worldwide. They are made by filling masa dough with various ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and cheese, then wrapping them in corn husks before steaming. Steaming tamales is the best way to cook them, as it keeps them moist and flavorful.
However, the steaming process can be confusing, especially for people who are new to making tamales. How long does it take to steam tamales in a steamer? This question is essential to ensure that your tamales are cooked through and delicious. In this article, we will explore the various factors that affect steaming tamales and how long it takes to cook them to perfection.
Choosing the Right Steamer for Tamales
Choosing the right steamer for tamales is essential for achieving perfectly cooked tamales. A traditional steamer with a large pot and multiple sections is an ideal option for steaming tamales. This type of steamer allows for a large number of tamales to be cooked at once, making it perfect for big events like family gatherings or parties.
However, if you don’t have a traditional steamer, you can use a vegetable steamer basket or a colander placed on top of a pot with boiling water. These steamers work well for smaller batches of tamales and are also great for those who don’t want to invest in a big steamer. Whichever steamer you choose, make sure to place a layer of corn husks or a damp cloth at the bottom of the steamer to prevent the tamales from sticking or absorbing too much water.
Preparing the Tamales for Steaming
To prepare tamales for steaming, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, soak the dried corn husks in warm water for about an hour to soften them up. Once the husks are pliable, pat them dry and set them aside.
Next, take the prepared tamale dough or “masa” and spread it evenly onto the center of the husk, leaving a little space at the bottom of the husk and the top to fold over. Add your desired filling, whether it be chicken, pork, or beans, down the center of the dough. Then, carefully roll the husk over the filling, making sure the dough completely encloses the filling and the husk is tightly wrapped.
You can use string or additional strips of husks to tie up the tamales, but it is not required. Once all the tamales are prepared, place them in a steamer basket with open ends facing up. It is important to leave enough space between each tamale so that steam can circulate and cook them evenly. Your tamales are now ready to steam!
The Ideal Steaming Time for Different Tamale Recipes
The ideal steaming time for different tamale recipes can vary depending on the type of filling you have used. For example, beef or pork tamales take longer to cook than chicken or vegetable tamales. On average, a tamale should take around 45-60 minutes to steam properly. However, if you are using tougher meats like beef, it may take up to 2 hours to cook fully.
Another important factor to keep in mind is the size of your tamales. If you have made larger tamales, they will take longer to cook than smaller ones. Additionally, altitude can also affect steaming time. If you live in a high altitude area, your tamales may need to steam longer than usual. Overall, it’s important to keep an eye on your tamales while they steam and check on them periodically to make sure they are cooking properly.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Steaming Tamales
When it comes to steaming tamales, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you ensure they come out perfectly every time. First, make sure to wrap each tamale securely in corn husks to prevent any water from seeping in during the steaming process. This will help keep your tamales moist and flavorful.
Next, be sure to place the tamales in a single layer in the steamer basket, leaving enough room between each one to allow for steam circulation. You may need to cook your tamales in batches if your steamer basket is not large enough to accommodate them all at once. Finally, be patient and don’t rush the steaming process, as it can take up to 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the size and thickness of your tamales. With these tips and tricks, your tamales will come out perfectly steamed and ready for your next fiesta.
Checking for Doneness: How to Tell if Your Tamales are Ready
After the recommended cooking time has elapsed, it’s essential to check whether your tamales are ready or not. Fortunately, there are various ways to confirm the readiness of your tamales. Firstly, check their texture. When they’re fully cooked, the dough should be firm and cooked all the way through, while the filling should be moist and tender.
Secondly, you can perform a visual test. Look at the outer surface of the tamales. If the corn husk easily separates from the dough, it’s a clear sign that they’re cooked. If it still sticks to the dough, give it a few more minutes in the steamer. Lastly, you can use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the tamales. The thermometer should read 165℉, which is a safe temperature for the chicken, pork, beef, or any other filling you may have used. Once your tamales pass any of these tests, they’re ready to be served hot and enjoyed with salsa.
Storing Steamed Tamales and Reheating Tips
Storing steamed tamales is a crucial step in preserving their freshness and flavor. Once the tamales are cooked, let them cool down for a few minutes before removing them from the steamer. Do not leave the tamales in the steamer for too long as it can result in overcooking and drying out. Once removed from the steamer, wrap the tamales individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, making sure they are fully sealed to prevent moisture loss.
Reheating steamed tamales is simple and can be done in various ways. To reheat the wrapped tamales, place them in a steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes until the filling is reheated thoroughly. Alternatively, you can reheat tamales by unwrapping them and microwaving on high for 1-2 minutes until heated thoroughly. Ensure to keep the tamales moist by placing a wet paper towel over them while reheating. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your tamales even after a few days of cooking.
Alternatives to Steaming Tamales: Other Cooking Methods to Try
If you don’t have a steamer, there are other cooking methods you can try to prepare tamales. One popular method is to bake them in an oven. To do this, preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the tamales individually in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake them for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the corn husks are easy to pull away from the masa.
Another option is to cook tamales on a stovetop. To do this, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a colander or steamer basket over the pot and arrange the tamales inside. Cover the colander with a lid or foil and steam the tamales for 30-40 minutes. When they’re done, the masa should be cooked all the way through and the filling should be steaming hot. Whichever cooking method you choose, make sure to keep an eye on the tamales to prevent overcooking or drying them out.
The Conclusion
Steaming tamales is a traditional and simple way of preparing this delicious Mexican dish. The cooking process is fairly quick and easy, but the duration generally depends on the type of the tamale, its size, and the temperature of the steamer. If you’re making tamales at home, it’s important to keep checking the water level in the steamer and ensure that the tamale is cooked all the way through before serving.
There are several advantages to cooking tamales in a steamer. It’s a healthy alternative to frying, as it retains the natural juices and flavors of the ingredients. Moreover, the steaming process helps to preserve the nutritional value of the dish, making it a great option for people who are conscious about their health. Overall, steaming tamales is a great way to achieve delicious results, and it’s a skill that can easily be mastered with a bit of practice and patience.