Beef tamales are the ultimate comfort food, with their warm, savory filling wrapped in soft corn dough. Imagine savory beef paired with spices, steam rising as you unwrap each delightful bundle. savory beef bites It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, and who doesn’t love that?
Every holiday season, my family gathers around the kitchen to create these little bundles of joy. The laughter and stories shared while preparing beef tamales make the experience even more special. creamy potato soup Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef tamale recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor that will impress your family and friends
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for holiday gatherings but versatile enough for a weeknight meal
- Enjoy them with various toppings to suit every palate
I remember the first time I made beef tamales; my friends were amazed at how delicious they turned out—definitely a proud cooking moment! sweet dessert pairing. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for flavorful and juicy filling.
- Corn Masa Flour: Essential for that soft, fluffy texture; look for masa harina labeled “for tamales.”
- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture; homemade or store-bought works perfectly.
- Dried Corn Husks: Soak these bad boys in warm water to soften before wrapping.
- Spices (Cumin, Chili Powder): Don’t skimp here; they add depth and warmth to the filling.
- Sour Cream or Cheese (Optional): For an extra creamy touch or cheesy goodness on top! easy cheese ball appetizer.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Corn Husks: Start by soaking dried corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes until pliable. This step ensures they wrap beautifully around your tasty filling.
Cook the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add chopped onions, garlic, cumin, and chili powder until fragrant—about 5 minutes should do.
Make the Masa Dough: In a large bowl, mix corn masa flour with baking powder and salt. Gradually add chicken broth until you achieve a smooth consistency resembling soft playdough.
Assemble the Tamales: Spread about two tablespoons of masa dough onto a soaked corn husk. Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center and fold up from the bottom. Tie with another strip of husk if you wish!
Steam Your Tamales: Arrange your assembled tamales upright in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover with a damp cloth and steam for about 1-1.5 hours until masa is set.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once cooked, let them cool slightly before serving with optional sour cream or cheese on top. Each bite bursts with flavor—enjoy!
Making beef tamales may seem daunting at first glance, but once you dive in, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience filled with laughter, love, and delicious food! For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
You Must Know
- Beef tamales are not just a dish; they’re a celebration of flavors and traditions
- These savory bundles burst with the richness of beef, spices, and masa
- Perfect for gatherings, they bring friends and family together, making every bite a memorable experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the filling first, allowing the flavors to meld while you soak the corn husks. Then, mix your masa dough and assemble the tamales for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with fillings! Substitute beef with chicken or cheese and add different spices to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tamales in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect beef tamales, ensure your masa is moist but not too wet
- Avoid overstuffing them; they need room to expand while cooking
- Take your time assembling; well-formed tamales hold up better during steaming
Cooking these beef tamales reminded me of my grandma’s kitchen, where laughter and love were as abundant as the delicious aromas wafting through the air.
FAQ
What kind of beef is best for tamales?
Use chuck roast or brisket for rich flavor and tenderness in your beef tamales.
Can I freeze beef tamales?
Yes! Freeze them unwrapped in a single layer, then store in airtight bags for long-term storage.
How do I know when my tamales are done?
Tamales are ready when the masa pulls away easily from the husk after steaming thoroughly.
Beef Tamales
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these beef tamales, where savory ground beef meets aromatic spices wrapped in soft corn dough. Perfect for festive occasions or cozy nights at home, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a cherished family tradition. Each tamale is a delightful bundle bursting with flavor, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn masa flour (masa harina for tamales)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup dried corn husks (soaked)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Optional: sour cream or cheese for topping
Instructions
- Soak the dried corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes until pliable.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine corn masa flour with baking powder and salt. Gradually add chicken broth until smooth.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of masa dough on each soaked husk, add a spoonful of beef filling, and fold up from the bottom.
- Arrange assembled tamales upright in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 1 to 1.5 hours until masa is set.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream or cheese.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tamale (90g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Experiment with fillings by substituting beef with chicken or cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week; reheat in a steamer or microwave for best results. Ensure your masa dough is moist but not overly wet to achieve perfect texture.
