Christmas Tamales: A Traditional Treat for the Holidays

It's that time of year again, when friends and family gather to celebrate the Christmas season with festive decorations, good cheer, and delicious food. One popular favorite is the traditional Christmas tamale, a savory treat made with corn dough filled with a variety of delicious fillings. This delectable dish is the perfect accompaniment to a festive holiday meal. Here’s everything you need to know to make your own delicious Christmas tamales.

What is a Tamale?

A tamale is basically a type of soft, steamed dumpling made from corn dough that is stuffed with various ingredients depending on the region and the taste. The dough is typically made with masa harina, a finely ground cornmeal, which gives the tamale its soft texture. Tamales are wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaves before being steamed.

Tamales are one of the oldest dishes in Latin American cuisine and have been around since pre-Columbian times. For centuries, they have been an important part of religious ceremonies and cultural celebrations. Today, tamales are still enjoyed by people of all backgrounds, especially during the Christmas season.

Christmas Tamales

Christmas tamales are usually made with a spicier filling than traditional tamales. They are often filled with a mixture of pork, beef, or chicken, as well as olives, raisins, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano. The dough is flavored with lard, and sometimes butter or vegetable shortening, and seasoned with chicken bouillon. The dough is then filled with the meat mixture and wrapped in a corn husk before steaming.

Christmas tamales are usually served hot with sides like salsa, guacamole, or refried beans. Some people like to top them with cheese or sour cream before serving. Whatever way you choose to enjoy them, Christmas tamales make for a delicious and festive holiday treat.

Making Your Own Christmas Tamales

Making Christmas tamales from scratch may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is some masa harina, lard, a few spices, and your favorite fillings. Start by preparing the dough by combining the masa harina with lard, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and chicken bouillon. Once the dough is mixed, form it into small balls and flatten them into discs. Then, spoon in your favorite filling and wrap the tamale in a corn husk or banana leaf.

Next, fill a large pot with water and place a steamer basket in the water. Place the tamales in the steamer basket and place it in the pot. Make sure the water does not touch the tamales. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and steam the tamales for about 40 minutes or until they are cooked through. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Conclusion

Christmas tamales are a delicious and traditional holiday treat. They are easy to make and can be filled with any number of delicious fillings. Whether you choose to make them from scratch or purchase them pre-made, Christmas tamales are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering. So, why not give them a try this year?

Christmas Tamales This Festive Food Is The Center Of Holiday Attention

The Best Christmas Tamales In Dallas D Magazine

For Mexican Families Christmas Means One Big Thing Homemade Tamales The Holiday Meal Chicago Tribune

Here S Where To Order Your Christmas Tamales 2019 Edition Dallas Observer

Foods That Make The Holidays Costa Rican Christmas Tamales Nbc Chicago

Christmas Mexican Pork Tamales Recipe With Chili Sauce

The Time I Took Part In A Traditional Mexican Tamalada That S What She Had

Bean Tamales For Christmas Eve Institute

Worth The Wait Long Lines At Local For Tamales This Christmas Nbc 7 San Go

Tamales

Christmas Tamales Making Masa Dough And Memories

Christmas Tamales Recipe Food Com

Kristen Currie Christmas Tamales Does Anyone Else Have For The Holidays Dad Picks Some Up At His Favorite Carniceria In Moorpark Ca Every Year We Love Pork