Deliciously Authentic Tamales Pork Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tamales are a beloved traditional dish that holds a special place in Mexican cuisine. They are made from masa (a type of dough made from corn) that is fille……

Tamales are a beloved traditional dish that holds a special place in Mexican cuisine. They are made from masa (a type of dough made from corn) that is filled with various ingredients, wrapped in corn husks, and then steamed to perfection. Among the many variations of tamales, the pork version stands out for its rich flavor and satisfying texture. In this detailed guide, we will explore an authentic tamales pork recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

### Ingredients for Tamales Pork Recipe

To make the perfect tamales, you will need the following ingredients:

**For the Masa:**

- 4 cups masa harina (corn flour)

- 1 cup vegetable shortening or lard

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 3 to 4 cups chicken broth (or more as needed)

**For the Pork Filling:**

- 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt

- 1 onion, quartered

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 cups chicken broth

- 1 tablespoon chili powder

- 1 teaspoon cumin

- 1 teaspoon oregano

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 12 to 15 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water for 30 minutes)

### Cooking Instructions

1. **Prepare the Pork Filling:**

- In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder, quartered onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Make sure to add more broth if needed to keep the meat submerged.

- Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat using two forks and return it to the pot. Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. **Prepare the Masa:**

- In a large mixing bowl, beat the vegetable shortening or lard until fluffy. Gradually add the masa harina, baking powder, and salt, mixing well.

- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, one cup at a time, until you achieve a soft, spreadable consistency. The masa should be light and airy, yet not too runny.

3. **Assemble the Tamales:**

- Take a soaked corn husk and lay it flat. Spread about 2 tablespoons of masa onto the center of the husk, leaving about 1 inch of space at the edges. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the pork filling on top of the masa.

- Fold the sides of the husk over the masa and filling, then fold the bottom up to secure everything inside. Repeat this process until you have used all the masa and filling.

4. **Steam the Tamales:**

- Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer basket, with the open end facing up. If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a rack or an inverted plate at the bottom.

- Fill the pot with water, making sure it doesn’t touch the tamales. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the masa easily pulls away from the corn husk.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:**

- Once cooked, let the tamales rest for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with sides like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Tamales are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a comforting meal at home.

### Conclusion

This tamales pork recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. The process of making tamales can be a fun family activity, and the end result is a delicious treat that everyone will love. With its savory filling and soft masa, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Mexican cooking. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for a cozy dinner, these tamales are sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and the warmth of this culinary tradition!