Red Pork Tamale

Few things evoke the cozy comfort of home quite like the aroma of homemade tamales wafting through the kitchen. Today, we bring you a delightful twist on the classic tamale recipe with our Red Pork Tamale. Juicy and flavorful, this dish is perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a special treat for yourself. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will transport you to a world of savory flavors and culinary delight.

Red Pork Tamale

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into cubes
– 2 dried ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 2 dried guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Corn husks, soaked in warm water

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder, ancho chilies, guajillo chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Reserve the cooking liquid.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, lard or vegetable shortening, baking powder, and 1 cup of the reserved cooking liquid. Mix until well combined and a soft dough forms.
4. Take a soaked corn husk and spread about 2 tablespoons of the masa mixture onto the center of the husk, leaving room around the edges. Place a spoonful of the shredded pork on top of the masa.
5. Fold the sides of the corn husk towards the center, enclosing the filling, and fold up the bottom edge. Secure with a strip of soaked corn husk if necessary. Repeat with the remaining husks, masa mixture, and shredded pork.
6. Place a steamer basket in a large pot and add enough water to come just below the basket. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer basket, open-side up.
7. Cover the tamales with a damp kitchen towel and steam over medium heat for 1-1.5 hours, or until the masa is firm and easily pulls away from the husk.
8. Remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the Red Pork Tamales warm with your favorite toppings or salsa.

These Red Pork Tamales are a labor of love that will surely impress your family and friends. The rich, savory flavors of the pork combined with the soft, fluffy masa create a harmonious blend that is hard to resist. Whether you make them for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal, these tamales are guaranteed to bring joy and warmth to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of these Red Pork Tamales.