Authentic Tamales Oaxaqueños Recipe

Learn how to make authentic Tamales Oaxaqueños, a traditional Mexican dish that originates from the state of Oaxaca. This recipe will guide you through the process of making these delicious tamales, filled with a flavorful filling made with stewed meats, chili sauce, and masa dough. These tamales are a labor of love, but the end result is worth every minute of preparation. Perfect for a special occasion or a holiday feast, these Tamales Oaxaqueños will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup chili sauce
• 1 pound pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
• 1/2 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 16 dried corn husks, soaked in water for 1 hour

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, lard or vegetable shortening, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the chicken or beef broth to the mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. In another bowl, combine the chili sauce, cooked and shredded pork shoulder, and chicken breast.
5. Place a corn husk on a flat surface and spread a thin layer of masa dough on it, leaving about 1 inch border around the edges.
6. Add a spoonful of the chili sauce and meat mixture on top of the masa dough.
7. Add a spoonful of refried beans and sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meat mixture.
8. Fold the corn husk over the filling, tucking in the sides. Secure with kitchen twine if needed.
9. Repeat the process with the remaining corn husks and filling.
10. Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with water and bring it to a boil.
11. Arrange the tamales in the steamer basket, standing them upright in the pot.
12. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for about 90 minutes, or until the masa dough is firm and separates easily from the husk.
13. Remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
14. Serve the Tamales Oaxaqueños warm with salsa and garnish with queso fresco, cilantro, and sliced radishes.

Interesting Facts