Delicious Homemade Beef Tamales

Learn how to make delicious homemade beef tamales with this traditional recipe. These tamales are made with corn masa dough filled with seasoned beef and wrapped in corn husks. They are steamed to perfection and can be served as a main dish or as a festive appetizer for parties and gatherings. This recipe yields flavorful and tender tamales that will be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
• 24 dried corn husks, soaked in water

Directions

1. In a large pot, place the beef chuck roast and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork. Remove the beef from the pot, shred it with two forks, and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeno peppers until softened.
3. Add the shredded beef to the skillet and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, beef broth, and lard or vegetable shortening. Mix well until you have a smooth dough. If the masa dough seems too dry, add a little more broth.
5. Take a soaked corn husk and spread about 2 tablespoons of masa dough onto the bottom half of the husk, leaving a border around the edges.
6. Place a spoonful of the beef filling onto the masa dough and spread it evenly. Roll the husk from one side to the other, enclosing the beef filling in the center. Fold the bottom end of the husk over the tamale and secure it with a strip of corn husk or kitchen twine.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining husks and filling, placing the tamales upright on a steamer rack in a large pot.
8. Fill the pot with enough water to reach just below the steamer rack. Cover the pot and steam the tamales over medium heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the masa dough is cooked through and firm.
9. Remove the tamales from the pot and let them cool slightly before serving. Optionally, top with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole before serving.
10. Enjoy these delicious homemade beef tamales with your favorite sides and garnishes!

Interesting Facts