Best Easy Tamales Barbones Recipe

"Bearded" tamales with whole shrimp poking out from the husks, a Sinaloa coastal specialty. These protein-rich, visually striking family tamales celebrate Mexico's Pacific seafood traditions.

Cook 120 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#High Protein #Mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • large shrimp, peeled with tails on 18 pieces
  • masa harina 2.5 cups
  • corn husks, dried 18 pieces
  • unsalted butter, softened 0.5 cup
  • chicken broth 1.25 cups
  • white onion, diced 0.5 cup
  • fresh cilantro, finely chopped 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 2 tsp
  • ground black pepper 1 tsp
  • smoked paprika 1 tsp
  • garlic powder 1 tsp
  • lime juice 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 37 g 43%
Protein 17 g 20%
Fat 13 g 34%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the dried corn husks in warm water for at least 45 minutes until pliable; keep submerged and set aside.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, season the shrimp with 1 tsp salt, half the black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lime juice. Let marinate for 20 minutes while you prepare the masa.

  3. 3

    In a separate large bowl, blend masa harina with softened butter. Gradually add chicken broth, remaining salt and pepper, mixing until a soft, spreadable dough forms.

  4. 4

    Drain and pat the corn husks dry. Spread about 3 tablespoons of masa dough onto the center of each husk, leaving room at the edges.

  5. 5

    Place 3 shrimp, a spoonful of diced onion, and chopped cilantro in the center of each masa layer. Make sure the shrimp tails poke out slightly at the top (the "beard").

  6. 6

    Fold the sides of the husk in, then fold up the bottom, leaving tails exposed. Tie tamales with thin strips of husk if needed to secure.

  7. 7

    Arrange tamales upright in a large steamer pot. Steam over simmering water for 75–90 minutes, checking water level halfway and adding more if needed. Masa is fully cooked when it pulls away cleanly from the husk.

  8. 8

    Let the tamales rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or your favorite salsa.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Tamales Barbones Recipe?
The defining ingredient in Tamales Barbones is the whole shrimp, which are seasoned and placed with their tails poking out of the masa. This gives the dish its signature 'bearded' look and infuses the tamale with a distinct, coastal seafood flavor.
Q. How do I ensure the shrimp stay tender and not overcooked when steaming?
It's important to avoid over-steaming. Follow the guidance of 75–90 minutes on a gentle simmer and make sure the water does not boil dry. As shrimp cook quickly, their placement inside the masa and steam environment protects them from direct heat, ensuring they stay juicy.
Q. Why does the masa have a soft texture in this recipe?
Blending softened butter into the masa dough, and hydrating it gradually with chicken broth, ensures the masa stays moist and soft after steaming. Be sure not to overmix or compact the dough too tightly into the husks, which can make tamales dense.
Q. What is the nutritional breakdown per serving of Tamales Barbones?
Each serving contains about 340 kcal, with 17g of protein (20%), 37g carbohydrates (43%), and 13g fat (34%). This makes it a protein-rich dish, thanks especially to the generous shrimp portion nestled in each tamale.
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