Best Easy Tamales de Chipilín Recipe

Tamales flavored with fragrant chipilín leaves, a beloved herb from southern Mexico. This vegetarian family specialty showcases a uniquely Chiapanecan flavor in a tender, steamed package.

Cook 105 min Difficulty NORMAL 270 kcal
#vegetarian #mexican #high fiber #chiapas
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Dried corn husks 16 pieces
  • Masa harina 2.5 cups
  • Vegetable shortening 0.75 cups
  • Vegetable broth 1.5 cups
  • Chipilín leaves 1 cup
  • Fresh corn kernels 0.75 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Baking powder 1.5 tsp
  • Salt 1.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 56%
Protein 7 g 10%
Fat 10 g 34%
Serving size 160g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak dried corn husks in hot water for at least 30 minutes until pliable, then drain and pat dry.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, beat vegetable shortening with salt and baking powder until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

  3. 3

    Gradually mix in masa harina, alternating with small amounts of vegetable broth, beating until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

  4. 4

    Fold chipilín leaves and fresh corn kernels evenly into the masa; ensure distribution for every tamal.

  5. 5

    Lay out a corn husk, spread about 1/3 cup of masa mixture into the center, fold sides and bottom to enclose the filling, and repeat until all dough is used.

  6. 6

    Arrange tamales in a single upright layer in a steamer, cover with remaining husks, steam over medium-high heat for 75–90 minutes, checking water level occasionally, until the masa pulls cleanly from the husk.

  7. 7

    Let tamales rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow them to firm up.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Chipilín leaves are the defining ingredient in Tamales de Chipilín. Their fragrant, earthy flavor is essential for recreating authentic Chiapanecan taste, and they are partnered with fresh corn and masa for texture.
Q. How is perfect texture achieved when making these tamales?
To achieve tender, cohesive tamales, it's important to beat the vegetable shortening until light before incorporating the masa harina, and to steam the tamales long enough so the masa pulls away cleanly from the husks without being wet or undercooked.
Q. What is the ideal steaming time and heat for Tamales de Chipilín?
Steam the assembled tamales over medium-high heat for 75 to 90 minutes, maintaining adequate water in the steamer so the tamales cook gently and evenly without drying out.
Q. How many calories and macronutrients per serving?
Each serving of these tamales contains about 270 kcal, with 38g carbs (56% of calories), 7g protein (10%), and 10g fat (34%), providing a balanced and satisfying meal.
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