Aunt Chilada’s Yucatan-Style Pork Tamales
There’s something truly special about the aroma of tamales steaming in the kitchen – it’s a comforting fragrance that warms the heart and soul. If you’ve ever wanted to try making tamales at home, Aunt Chilada’s Yucatan-Style Pork Tamales are the perfect recipe to start with. These tamales are a delicious blend of tender pork, flavorful spices, and masa dough, all wrapped in corn husks for a traditional touch. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Yucatan region with this easy-to-follow recipe that will have your loved ones gathering around the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into chunks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 12-15 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
2. Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, chicken broth, and lard or vegetable shortening. Mix well until you have a smooth, spreadable dough.
4. To assemble the tamales, take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of masa dough on the wider end of the husk, leaving some space at the edges. Add a spoonful of the shredded pork in the center of the dough.
5. Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, then fold the bottom of the husk up. Secure the tamale by tying a strip of corn husk around it.
6. Place the tamales upright in a steamer basket, making sure they are standing with the open end facing up. Steam the tamales for 1 to 1.5 hours, adding more water to the steamer as needed.
7. To check if the tamales are done, remove one from the steamer and let it cool slightly. If the masa dough easily pulls away from the corn husk, they are ready.
8. Serve the Aunt Chilada’s Yucatan-Style Pork Tamales warm with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Aunt Chilada’s Yucatan-Style Pork Tamales are a labor of love that will be well worth the effort. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these tamales are sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the process of creating these delicious tamales and savor the rich flavors of the Yucatan region right at your own dining table.
