Traditional Tamales with Pork and Red Sauce

Introduction

Welcome to a delicious journey into the world of traditional tamales! In this recipe, we will be exploring how to make mouthwatering tamales filled with savory pork and topped with a flavorful red sauce. Tamales are a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, typically enjoyed during holidays and special gatherings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create these delightful treats in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Pork Filling:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth

For the Red Sauce:

• 4 ancho chilies, seeded and deveined
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt to taste

For the Tamale Dough:

• 3 cups masa harina
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine the diced pork shoulder, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth for the pork filling. Cook over medium heat until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

2. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, toast the ancho chilies until fragrant. Then, soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes. Blend the chilies with tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, and salt to create the red sauce.

3. For the tamale dough, mix the masa harina, chicken broth, lard or vegetable shortening, baking powder, and salt in a bowl until well combined and slightly fluffy.

4. To assemble the tamales, spread a thin layer of tamale dough on a softened corn husk, add a spoonful of the pork filling, and top it with a drizzle of red sauce. Fold the corn husk to enclose the filling securely.

5. Steam the tamales in a large pot for about 1.5-2 hours until the dough is cooked through and firm. Serve hot with extra red sauce on top and enjoy the authentic flavors of traditional tamales!

FAQ About Traditional Tamales with Pork and Red Sauce

What are traditional tamales with pork and red sauce?

Traditional tamales with pork and red sauce are a popular Mexican dish made with masa (corn dough) filled with savory ingredients like seasoned pork and a flavorful red chili sauce.

How are traditional tamales with pork and red sauce made?

To make traditional tamales with pork and red sauce, masa is spread on a corn husk, filled with cooked pork mixed with red chili sauce, then folded and steamed until cooked through. The filling is key for the dish’s rich flavor.

What gives traditional tamales with pork and red sauce their distinct taste?

The combination of tender, seasoned pork and the tangy, slightly spicy red sauce made with a variety of dried chilies gives traditional tamales their unique and delicious flavor profile.

Are traditional tamales with pork and red sauce difficult to make?

While the process of making tamales can be time-consuming due to assembling and steaming each one individually, the steps themselves are not overly complicated. With practice and patience, anyone can learn to make these flavorful tamales at home.