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Instant Pot Tamales Recipe: Homemade Delight Instant Pot Tamales Recipe: Homemade Delight

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Instant Pot Tamales Recipe: Homemade Delight

Written by: Lucas Johnson

Whipping up these instant pot tamales is a breeze! Just mix, spread, roll, and let the pot do its magic. Perfectly steamed, packed with flavor - they're my go-to comfort food.

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I've got a game-changer for your kitchen! These instant pot tamales are my go-to when craving authentic Mexican flavors without hours of work. Forget slaving over a stove all day – we're talking quick, delicious homemade tamales in under an hour. Stuffed with savory chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty salsa, wrapped in tender corn husks, these little bundles of joy will transport your taste buds straight to abuela's cocina. Ready to revolutionize your Taco Tuesday? Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Tamales

  • Masa harina: Corn flour that forms the base of tamales, providing a soft and fluffy texture when cooked.
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the masa dough, enhancing the overall taste of the tamales.
  • Baking powder: Helps the masa dough rise and become light and airy during the cooking process.
  • Vegetable oil: Adds richness and moisture to the masa dough, ensuring the tamales are not dry when cooked.
  • Corn husks: Used to wrap and steam the tamales, imparting a subtle corn flavor and keeping the filling moist.
  • Salsa: Adds a burst of flavor and moisture to the tamales, complementing the other ingredients with a zesty kick.
  • Shredded cooked chicken: Provides a protein-packed filling for the tamales, adding savory flavor and heartiness to each bite.
  • Shredded cheese: Melts into the filling, adding a creamy and gooey texture along with a delicious cheesy flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Tamales in an Instant Pot

  • Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking the tamales quickly and efficiently.
  • Mixing Bowl: To combine the masa harina with broth, oil, and seasonings to form the tamale dough.
  • Corn Husks: Used to wrap the tamale dough before cooking, imparting a traditional flavor and aroma to the dish.
instant-pot-tamales-recipe-homemade-delight

Instant Pot Tamales Recipe: Homemade Delight

This Instant Pot Tamales Recipe is a homemade delight that brings the traditional flavors of tamales to your kitchen in a fraction of the time. Perfect for a family meal or a special occasion.
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Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 30 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 people
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Bowl

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil
  • 12 corn husks
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Instructions: 

  • Soak corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes.
  • In a bowl, mix masa harina, broth, baking powder, salt, and oil to form a dough.
  • Spread dough on soaked corn husks.
  • Add salsa, chicken, and cheese on top of the dough.
  • Roll the tamales and place them in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
  • Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
  • Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.

Notes:

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Keywords:

Keyword Instant Pot, Mexican Food, Tamales
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Preparing and Storing Tamales Ahead of Time

Make Ahead Instructions

  • Prepare the tamales as instructed but do not cook them.
  • Store the uncooked tamales in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.

Freezing Instructions

  • After assembling the tamales, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to eat, cook the frozen tamales in the Instant Pot for 40-45 minutes.

When making tamales, adding a small piece of avocado leaf to the masa dough can impart a subtle, earthy flavor to the tamales.

Common Questions About Making Tamales in an Instant Pot

FAQ:
Can I use a different type of meat for the tamales?
Yes, you can substitute the shredded chicken with beef, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
How long can I store the cooked tamales?
Cooked tamales can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make the masa dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the masa dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the tamales.
Can I steam the tamales instead of using an instant pot?
Yes, you can steam the tamales in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 1-1.5 hours until cooked through.
How can I tell when the tamales are done cooking?
The tamales are done cooking when the masa dough is firm and easily pulls away from the corn husks.

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