How to Steam Tamales

Prepare the Tamales:

1. Remove the husks: Carefully peel off the corn husks from the tamales. Do this gently to avoid tearing the husks.

2. Rinse the tamales: Rinse the tamales under cold water to remove any excess masa or fillings.

3. Soak the husks: Place the husks in a large bowl filled with warm water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This will make them pliable for wrapping the tamales again.

Set up the Steamer:

1. Choose a steamer: You can use a traditional bamboo steamer, a metal steamer basket that fits inside a pot, or even a colander placed over a pot.

2.Fill the pot with water: Add enough water to the pot so that it comes up just below the steamer basket.

3.Bring water to a boil: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

Wrap the Tamales:

1. Re-wrap the tamales: Take a soaked husk and place it on a flat surface. Place a tamale in the center of the husk.

2.Fold the sides: Fold the sides of the husk over the tamale, bringing the edges together in the middle.

3.Tie the tamales: Use a piece of kitchen twine or a strip of corn husk to tie the tamale closed. Make sure it's secure but not too tight.

Steam the Tamales:

1. Arrange the tamales: Place the wrapped tamales in the steamer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowding the basket, allowing for some space between each tamale.

2.Cover the steamer: Cover the steamer basket with its lid or foil if using a colander.

3.Reduce heat and steam: Reduce the heat to medium and let the tamales steam undisturbed for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the masa is cooked through.

4.Check the tamales: Occasionally check the water level in the pot and replenish if necessary. Test one tamale to see if it's cooked by carefully unwrapping it and checking if the masa is firm and comes away easily from the husk.

Enjoy the Tamales:

1.Let them cool: Once the tamales are done steaming, let them cool for a few minutes before unwrapping them.

2.Serve your tamales: Serve your tamales warm, accompanied by your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, crema Mexicana, or mole sauce.

Tips:

* To ensure even steaming, rotate the tamales halfway through the cooking time.

* If using a bamboo steamer, place a few extra soaked husks on the bottom of the steamer to prevent the tamales from sticking.

* If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a colander or even a large pot with a lid turned upside down.

* Experiment with different fillings to create various flavorful tamales.

* Enjoy your homemade tamales - they're the perfect comfort food!