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Best Easy Tamales de Fiestas Patrias Recipe

Name: Best Easy Tamales de Fiestas Patrias Recipe
Total time: 170 min
Yield: 200 g
Ingredients: dried corn husks 20 pieces; masa harina 3 cups; chicken broth 2 cups; shredded cooked chicken 2 cups; baking powder 2 tsp; lard or vegetable shortening 1 cup; salt 1 tsp; green salsa 1 cup

Patriotic tamales prepared for Mexican Independence celebrations are a festive tradition. This protein-rich, family dish is a fresh, traditional centerpiece of September celebrations.

Cook 170 min Difficulty NORMAL 370 kcal

#mexican #holiday #protein-rich #family meal

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

dried corn husks 20 pieces
masa harina 3 cups
chicken broth 2 cups
shredded cooked chicken 2 cups
baking powder 2 tsp

Seasonings/Sauce

lard or vegetable shortening 1 cup
salt 1 tsp
green salsa 1 cup

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 37 g 40%

Protein 15 g 16%

Fat 17 g 41%

Serving size 200g

Cooking steps

1

Soak the dried corn husks in hot water for at least 45 minutes, weighting them down to keep submerged until pliable.
2

In a large bowl, beat the lard or vegetable shortening with the baking powder and salt until fluffy, about 3–5 minutes on medium speed.
3

Gradually add masa harina, alternating with chicken broth, mixing until a smooth, spreadable dough forms without over-mixing.
4

Lay out a softened corn husk, spread about 2–3 tbsp of masa mixture in the center, add 2 tbsp shredded chicken and a spoonful of green salsa.
5

Fold the sides of the husk toward the center, then fold up the bottom. Tie with a strip of husk if desired to secure.
6

Arrange tamales upright in a large steamer pot with the folded ends down. Cover with remaining husks and steam over medium heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking water level and adding hot water as needed.
7

To check doneness, carefully open one tamal—the masa should pull away cleanly from the husk and be firm. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?

The heart of Tamales de Fiestas Patrias is the masa harina, a finely ground corn flour. It gives the dough its authentic texture and flavor, making the tamal uniquely Mexican. The use of corn husks for wrapping also defines its festive presentation.

Q. Which ingredient makes the biggest difference in flavor?

Green salsa adds a bright, tangy kick that complements the seasoned chicken filling. Paired with the richness of lard or vegetable shortening in the masa, it elevates each bite and contributes to the traditional flavor profile of celebration tamales.

Q. How do I avoid undercooking or overcooking tamales?

Maintain a steady medium steam and check water levels to prevent scorching. Tamales are done when the dough pulls cleanly away from the husk and feels firm, usually after 1.5 to 2 hours of steaming. Resting them for 10 minutes ensures the right texture.

Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?

Each serving (200g) of Tamales de Fiestas Patrias has approximately 370 kcal and 15g of protein. Protein makes up about 16% of total calories, supporting its reputation as a protein-rich festive dish.

Q. What heat control is important in preparing the masa?

When beating the lard or shortening with baking powder and salt, use room temperature fats and mix on medium speed. This aerates the masa, making it fluffy and light—don’t skip this step, as it directly affects the texture of the finished tamal.

Best Easy Tamales de Fiestas Patrias Recipe

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