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Best Easy Ofrenda de Tamales Recipe

Name: Best Easy Ofrenda de Tamales Recipe
Total time: 115 min
Yield: 120 g
Ingredients: corn masa harina 2.5 cups; chicken breast 1 lb; chicken broth 1.5 cups; lard 6 tbsp; corn husks 16 pieces; cooked pinto beans 1 cup; baking powder 1 tsp; salt 1.5 tsp; cumin 1 tsp

Tamales placed on the ofrenda as offerings for departed souls are a sacred tradition. This protein-rich, family dish is a fresh, spiritual centerpiece of Day of the Dead celebrations.

Cook 115 min Difficulty NORMAL 315 kcal

#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

corn masa harina 2.5 cups
chicken breast 1 lb
chicken broth 1.5 cups
lard 6 tbsp
corn husks 16 pieces
cooked pinto beans 1 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

baking powder 1 tsp
salt 1.5 tsp
cumin 1 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 39 g 49%

Protein 13 g 17%

Fat 10 g 34%

Serving size 120g

Cooking steps

1

Soak the corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes to soften; set aside.
2

Poach chicken breast in chicken broth over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred and reserve broth.
3

In a large bowl, mix corn masa harina, baking powder, salt, and lard; gradually add chicken broth to create a soft, pliable dough.
4

Spread 2–3 tbsp of masa onto each corn husk, add shredded chicken and pinto beans in the center, and sprinkle cumin over the filling.
5

Fold corn husks around the filling, ensuring tight seals; steam tamales upright over medium-high heat for 60–70 minutes until masa pulls away easily from the husk.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Ofrenda de Tamales Recipe?

The essential ingredient is corn masa harina, which gives tamales their signature flavor and texture. It forms the base of the dough, enveloping the protein-rich chicken and beans and creates the classic tamale structure that is fundamental for Day of the Dead offerings.

Q. How should I control the heat while steaming tamales for the best results?

Steaming tamales upright over medium-high heat ensures even cooking and prevents drying. Monitor the heat to maintain a steady simmer—too low and the tamales won’t cook through; too high and they may dry out or split. Proper heat control lets the masa set and pull easily from the husk.

Q. How can I avoid dry or undercooked tamales?

To prevent dryness, soak the corn husks thoroughly and ensure the masa dough is soft and pliable by adding broth gradually. Steaming for about 60–70 minutes is key; undercooked tamales stick to the husk, while overcooking can make them tough. Test with one tamale—if masa releases cleanly, they’re ready.

Q. What is the protein-to-carb ratio and calorie content per serving in this recipe?

Each serving contains about 315 kcal, 13g protein (17%), and 39g carbohydrates (49%). With protein contributing significantly to the nutritional balance, this recipe is well-suited for protein-focused diets and offers moderate calories per serving.

Best Easy Ofrenda de Tamales Recipe

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