How To Make Sweet Corn Tamales: A Delicious And Easy Recipe!

Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with our guide on how to make sweet corn tamales. These traditional Mexican treats are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, offering a burst of flavors in every bite. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create your own homemade tamales that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Masa:

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus more for greasing

For the Filling:

• 4 ears of fresh sweet corn, kernels removed
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

For the Husks:

• 24 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Masa

• In a large bowl, whisk together the masa harina, salt, and warm water until a smooth dough forms.
• Gradually add the vegetable oil and knead the dough until it becomes pliable and no longer sticks to your hands.

2. Make the Filling

• In a separate bowl, combine the corn kernels, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, cilantro, salt, and black pepper.
• Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir to combine.

3. Assemble the Tamales

• Lay a corn husk on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of masa onto the husk, leaving about 2 inches of space at the top.
• Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of the masa.

4. Wrap the Tamales

• Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up.
• Tie the tamales with a strip of corn husk or kitchen twine.

5. Steam the Tamales

• Fill a large steamer with water and bring to a boil.
• Place the tamales in the steamer, cover, and steam for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until the masa is cooked through.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Once steamed, let the tamales cool slightly before unwrapping.
• Serve the tamales warm with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, or cheese.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh sweet corn for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have a steamer, you can boil the tamales in a large pot of water covered with a lid.
• Let the tamales cool slightly before unwrapping to prevent the masa from sticking to the husks.
• Don’t overfill the tamales, or they will be difficult to wrap and steam.

Variations

• Add other vegetables to the filling, such as chopped carrots, peas, or zucchini.
• Use different types of masa harina, such as blue corn or red corn, for a variety of colors and flavors.
• Top the tamales with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or shredded cheese.

Sweet Corn Tamales: A Culinary Symphony

Sweet corn tamales are a culinary masterpiece that combines the flavors of summer with the warmth of tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, our step-by-step guide will help you create these delicious treats that will delight your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between sweet and savory tamales?
A: Sweet tamales are typically filled with sweet ingredients, such as fruit or corn, while savory tamales are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Q: How long can I store tamales?
A: Cooked tamales can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?
A: Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch. However, fresh corn will give your tamales a sweeter, more flavorful taste.

Q: What are some other fillings I can use for sweet tamales?
A: Some other popular fillings for sweet tamales include fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. You can also add nuts, spices, or chocolate chips to the filling.

Q: How do I know when the tamales are done steaming?
A: The tamales are done steaming when the masa is cooked through and the filling is hot. You can check the doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the tamale. If the toothpick comes out clean, the tamales are done.