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Best Easy Tamales de Carreta Recipe

Name: Best Easy Tamales de Carreta Recipe
Total time: 120 min
Yield: 210 g
Ingredients: masa harina 2.5 cups; chicken broth 2 cups; shredded chicken breast 16 oz; corn husks 18 pieces; unsalted butter 6 tbsp; baking powder 2 tsp; kosher salt 1 tsp; chili powder 2 tbsp; ground cumin 1 tsp

Large cart-style tamales sold by street vendors are a comforting, portable Mexican staple. This family-friendly, protein-rich dish is a fresh, traditional option for on-the-go meals.

Cook 120 min Difficulty NORMAL 325 kcal

#high protein #diabetic friendly #family meals #mexican street food

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

masa harina 2.5 cups
chicken broth 2 cups
shredded chicken breast 16 oz
corn husks 18 pieces
unsalted butter 6 tbsp

Seasonings/Sauce

baking powder 2 tsp
kosher salt 1 tsp
chili powder 2 tbsp
ground cumin 1 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 35 g 43%

Protein 15 g 19%

Fat 11 g 38%

Serving size 210g

Cooking steps

1

Soak corn husks in very warm water for 30 minutes to soften, then drain and pat dry.
2

Combine masa harina, baking powder, salt, butter, and chicken broth in a large bowl; mix until a soft, spreadable dough forms.
3

Prepare the shredded chicken by tossing it with chili powder and cumin for even seasoning.
4

Spread a portion of masa dough onto each corn husk, keeping a 1-inch border from the edges, then add seasoned chicken in the center.
5

Fold the sides of the husk over the filling tightly, then fold the narrow end up; arrange tamales upright in a steamer basket.
6

Steam tamales for 90 minutes over medium heat, checking water level every 30 minutes and refilling as needed to maintain even steam.
7

Rest tamales for 10 minutes after steaming; serve hot for best texture and flavor retention.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?

Masa harina is essential for Tamales de Carreta, as it forms the dough layer that defines their soft texture and authentic Mexican flavor. The combination of masa with chicken broth yields the classic taste and portability unique to cart-style tamales.

Q. How is heat controlled during steaming?

Maintaining a steady medium heat during the 90-minute steaming and checking the water every 30 minutes ensures even cooking and prevents dry or undercooked tamales. Steam management is vital for proper moisture and structure.

Q. How can I make sure tamales don't become too dense or dry?

Properly hydrating the masa with chicken broth and butter is key for a tender, moist bite. Ensure mushy dough consistency before spreading and don’t skip the resting step post-steaming, as it helps lock in moisture and prevents dryness.

Q. What’s the nutritional profile per serving for these tamales?

Each serving contains about 325 kcal, with 35g carbohydrates (43%), 15g protein (19%), and 11g fat (38%). This balance makes Tamales de Carreta a protein-rich, family-friendly meal suitable for those monitoring carbs or seeking high protein options.

Best Easy Tamales de Carreta Recipe

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