The holiday season is the perfect time to gather your loved ones and whip up some festive treats in the kitchen. Embrace the flavors of Mexico with a delightful twist on a traditional Christmas recipe – the Tamal De Manzana, or Apple Tamal. This sweet and savory dish brings together the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with the comforting texture of a classic tamale. Perfect for sharing and creating new memories, this Mexican Christmas baking recipe will delight your taste buds and add a touch of holiday cheer to your home.
**Tamal De Manzana Apple Tamal**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1 cup vegetable shortening
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Corn husks, soaked in warm water
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. In a separate bowl, cream the vegetable shortening until smooth. Gradually add the masa mixture to the creamed shortening, alternating with warm water, and continue mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Fold in the diced apples, raisins, and chopped walnuts into the masa dough until well incorporated.
4. To assemble the tamales, take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of the masa mixture onto the center of the husk, leaving space around the edges. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling and fold up the bottom to enclose the tamal.
5. Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot, making sure they are tightly packed to prevent unfolding during cooking. Steam the tamales over simmering water for about 1 hour, or until the masa is firm to the touch.
6. Once cooked, remove the tamales from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an extra festive touch.
Get creative with your Tamal De Manzana by adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent twist. These Apple Tamales are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, evoking the cozy flavors of Christmas with a touch of Mexican flair. Share the joy of the season with this delicious and unique treat that will surely become a new family favorite. Happy baking!
