Easy Corn Tamales Recipe
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recipe
Prep time
45m
Total time
1.5
h
Yields
15
Servings
These Corn Tamales are soft and full of sweet corn flavor. Made with yellow corn masa, butter, and whole corn kernels, they are wrapped in corn husks and steamed until light and fluffy. They are perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or as a comforting homemade meal. If you’re looking for more traditional options, try our red pork tamales or sweet tamales to round out your table. To find stores that carry La Campera Tortilla Factory products, visit our Where to Buy page.
Ingredients
4
Cups
4 cups yellow corn masa
1
Cup
1 cup of warm chicken or vegetable broth
1
Cup
1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
1
Tsp.
1 teaspoon of baking powder
Water (for steaming)
1
Tsp.
1 teaspoon of salt
1 1/2
Cups
1 1/2 cups of corn kernels
1/2
Cup
1/2 cup of canned cream-style corn
18-20
18-20 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water 30-45 minutes)
Directions
Step
1
In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add the yellow corn masa, baking powder, and salt.
Step
2
Slowly pour in the broth and mix until the masa is soft and spreadable. Stir in the corn kernels and cream-style corn.
Step
3
Pat dry the corn husks. Spread about 2 to 3 tablespoons of masa onto the center of each husk. Fold the sides inward and fold the bottom of the husk upward.
Step
4
Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer pot. Steam for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the masa pulls away cleanly from the husk.
Step
5
Let the tamales rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips:
If the masa feels too thick, add a little more broth.
Do not overfill the husks, or the tamales may not close properly.
Tamales are ready when the masa separates easily from the husk.
Leftover tamales can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
How do I know when corn tamales are done?
Corn tamales are ready when the masa pulls away cleanly from the corn husk and feels firm but tender.
Can I make corn tamales ahead of time?
Yes. Corn tamales can be made ahead and refrigerated for several days or frozen for longer storage.
Can I use fresh or frozen corn?
Yes. Fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels all work well in this recipe.
