Makes about 12 tamales
Corn husks for wrapping — 12-15 each
Vegetable shortening or oil — 1/4 cup
Butter or margarine, softened — 1/4 cup
Baking powder — 2 teaspoons
Masa harina — 2 cups
Warm water — 1 cup
Salt — 2 teaspoons
Corn on the cob — 2-3 ears
Method
Add the corn husks to a large pot. Pour boiling water over them and let them soak for at least 30 minutes to make them pliable.
Add the shortening, butter or margarine and baking powder to a food processor or mixer and beat until until light and fluffy.
Cut enough corn kernels off the cobs to make about 2 cups. Scrape the cobs with a knife to get all their milk. Add the corn kernels and their milk to the food processor and pulse until fairly smooth but still a little chunky.
In a large bowl, mix together the masa harina, salt and warm water and knead to form a pliable mass. Pulse a little bit at a time into the corn and lard mixture until smooth.
Drain the cornhusks and wipe dry. Lay out a husk with the pointed end up and add about 1/4 cup dough to the center. Fold in each side to cover the dough. Then fold up the bottom of the husk. Finally fold down the pointed top and insert it into the bottom to make a package. Tie the tamal with string if needed. Repeat with the rest of the dough.
Steam the tamales for 30-45 minutes. Remove from pot and serve hot. Some people like to pour a little bit of cream on top of their chuchitos.
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