Corn masa tamales filled with pork in a rich red chile sauce, steamed until tender. These protein-rich family celebration tamales deliver bold, traditional Mexican flavors.
Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until pliable, then drain and set aside.
Place pork shoulder in a stockpot; cover with water and add 1 tsp kosher salt. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 1.5 hours until tender; shred meat and reserve broth.
Remove stems and seeds from guajillo chiles. Simmer chiles in 1 cup chicken broth for 10 minutes until soft. Blend with garlic, cumin, oregano, and 1 tsp salt to make a smooth sauce.
Cook shredded pork with the red chile sauce over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
For the masa, beat lard with masa harina and 1 cup of reserved pork broth (or chicken broth) in a bowl until light and fluffy. Add more broth as needed for a thick but spreadable dough.
Drain husks and pat dry. Spread about 2-3 tbsp masa onto center of each husk, leaving space at the edges, then add 2 tbsp pork filling in the center. Fold sides over filling, then fold up the bottom.
Arrange tamales upright in a large steamer, seam side in. Steam over gentle heat for about 75 minutes, checking water level and adding more if necessary, until masa is firm and pulls away from the husks cleanly.