Best Easy Tamales para Día de la Candelaria Recipe

Tamales served on Candlemas Day by whoever found the baby Jesus in the Rosca. This protein-rich, family tradition is a fresh, festive continuation of the holiday season.

Cook 150 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • corn husks 16 pieces
  • masa harina 2 cups
  • chicken broth 1.5 cups
  • shredded cooked chicken 2 cups
  • lard 0.5 cup
  • baking powder 2 tsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1 tsp
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • chili powder 2 tbsp
  • garlic powder 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 39 g 46%
Protein 17 g 20%
Fat 12 g 32%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak corn husks in warm water for at least 1 hour to soften, weighing them down to ensure full submersion.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, use a mixer on medium speed to beat the lard until fluffy, about 3 minutes, then gradually add masa harina, baking powder, salt, and chicken broth, mixing until a light, spreadable dough forms.

  3. 3

    In a separate bowl, combine shredded chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, ensuring even coating for maximal flavor.

  4. 4

    Pat corn husks dry with a towel. Spread about 1/4 cup masa mixture on each husk, leaving a margin at one end, then spoon some seasoned chicken in the center and fold both sides in, then fold up the narrow end to seal.

  5. 5

    Arrange tamales upright in a large steamer with the folded end down, cover with a damp towel, and steam over medium-high heat for 75–90 minutes, checking periodically and adding hot water as needed to prevent scorching.

  6. 6

    Let tamales rest uncovered for 10 minutes before serving; this helps firm up the texture and avoids sogginess.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in Best Easy Tamales para Día de la Candelaria Recipe?
The core ingredient is masa harina, which gives tamales their classic soft texture and distinctive corn flavor. Paired with shredded chicken as the protein, masa harina creates the base and identity of authentic tamales for Día de la Candelaria.
Q. What is the most important step for perfect tamale texture?
Ensuring the masa dough is light and well-hydrated is crucial. Beating lard until fluffy and fully incorporating the chicken broth produces a moist, tender tamale. Steaming with proper heat and enough water prevents drying out or undercooking.
Q. How do I prevent tamales from becoming soggy or dense?
Always rest the steamed tamales uncovered for about 10 minutes after cooking. This allows excess steam to escape and the masa to set, resulting in firmer, less sticky tamales. Also, don't overfill husks or compress the masa too much.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each tamale serving?
Each serving (220g) contains approximately 340 kcal, with about 17g of protein, 39g of carbs, and 12g of fat. Protein accounts for roughly 20% of each serving's calories, making these tamales a good source of protein.
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