12+ Homemade Tamales Recipes You’ll Love to Make and Share with Family!
There’s something magical about tamales that brings families together. The warm, comforting aroma wafting from the kitchen instantly fills the heart with joy. Each one is a little bundle of flavor, wrapped in tradition, waiting to be unwrapped and enjoyed.
Imagine biting into a tender tamale filled with savory, slow-cooked pork, spiced just right. This classic recipe captures the essence of traditional Mexican cooking, with a delightful combination of spices and textures that will make your taste buds sing.
2 pounds pork shoulder
1 onion, quartered
3 cloves garlic
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
4 cups masa harina
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
1 cup warm water
Husks from 20-25 dried corn husks
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or celebrations. The pork is slow-cooked until it’s fall-apart tender, soaking up all the flavors from the spices and broth. Shredding it creates a juicy filling that pairs beautifully with the soft masa dough. Plus, making these tamales is a fun activity you can enjoy with your loved ones as you share stories and laughter while wrapping each one up.
If you’re looking for a meat-free option that’s just as delicious, these vegetarian tamales are sure to impress. Packed with protein-rich black beans and accented with spices, they offer a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.
2 cups black beans (cooked)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
4 cups masa harina
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup vegetable shortening
1 cup warm vegetable broth
Husks from 20-25 dried corn husks
This recipe highlights the versatility of tamales, making them accessible to everyone. The black beans add a creamy texture, while the corn gives a sweet crunch that balances the spices. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing flavor. Sharing these at your next potluck or family dinner will show everyone that hearty and wholesome can also be incredibly tasty.
Who says tamales have to be savory? These sweet cinnamon tamales are a delightful twist that can serve as a dessert or a special breakfast treat. Imagine the smell of cinnamon wafting through your home, welcoming everyone to the table.
2 cups masa harina
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk or almond milk
Husks from 20-25 dried corn husks
Optional: chocolate chips or raisins for added sweetness
This recipe is all about satisfying your sweet tooth in the yummiest way possible. The combination of sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting filling that melts in your mouth. And if you decide to throw in some chocolate chips or raisins, you’ll elevate these tamales to a whole new level of deliciousness. They’re perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family gathering, making them a unique addition to your dessert table.
For those who love rich flavors, chicken mole tamales are a must-try. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich, chocolate-infused mole sauce, creating a complex and delightful flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
2 pounds chicken thighs
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon cumin
4 cups masa harina
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
1 cup chicken broth
Husks from 20-25 dried corn husks
This recipe is special because it combines the deep, rich flavor of mole with the comforting texture of tamales. The chicken absorbs all the flavors from the mole, making every bite an explosion of taste. Cooking the mole from scratch adds a personal touch that your family will appreciate, as they savor the complexity of this beloved dish. Serve these tamales at your next family gathering, and watch as everyone reaches for more!
Craving something a little different? These spicy shrimp tamales bring a seafood twist that’s bursting with flavor. The tender shrimp are sautéed with spices, creating a delicious filling that pairs perfectly with the soft masa.
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
1 teaspoon cumin
2 cups masa harina
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
1 cup seafood broth
Husks from 20-25 dried corn husks
This recipe stands out thanks to its unique flavor combination and the satisfying texture of the shrimp. The spices add a nice kick, making these tamales perfect for anyone who enjoys a little heat. Plus, the colorful presentation is sure to impress your family and friends, making them perfect for parties or special occasions. You’ll love how easily these come together, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit on your dinner table!
