I love tamales. They are one of my all-time favorite Mexican dishes. Every time I see them on a menu, I can’t resist ordering them. I also love making tamales at home. It’s a labor of love, but the end result is always worth it. The only downside to making a big batch of tamales is that you end up with leftovers, and reheating them can be a bit tricky. But fear not, because today I am going to share with you a quick and easy method to defrost tamales in the microwave.
Why Defrosting Tamales in the Microwave is the Best Option
When it comes to defrosting tamales, there are a few methods you can choose from. You could let them thaw naturally at room temperature, but that can take a long time, especially if you have a large batch to defrost. Another option is using the oven, but that can take a while as well, and might end up drying out the tamales. So, why is defrosting tamales in the microwave the best option? Well, it’s quick, convenient, and ensures that your tamales remain moist and delicious.
Step 1: Prepare the Tamales for Defrosting
The first step in defrosting tamales in the microwave is to prepare them for defrosting. Start by removing the tamales from the freezer, and then carefully unwrap them from their husks. Once the tamales are unwrapped, place them on a microwave-safe plate.
Step 2: Prepare the Microwave
Before you start defrosting the tamales, you need to prepare your microwave. Start by checking the wattage of your microwave. You can usually find this information on the inside of the microwave door or in the user manual. Knowing the wattage is important because it will help you determine the defrosting time. Once you have the wattage, you can move on to the next step.
Step 3: Determine Defrosting Time
Now that you know the wattage of your microwave, you can determine the defrosting time for your tamales. As a general rule of thumb, you should microwave tamales at 50% power. So, if your microwave is 1000 watts, you’ll need to set the power to 500 watts. As for the defrosting time, it will vary depending on the size and number of tamales you’re defrosting. A good starting point is around 2 minutes per tamale.
Step 4: Defrost the Tamales
It’s finally time to defrost the tamales. Place the plate with the tamales in the microwave and set the time based on the calculations you made in the previous step. Press start, and let the microwave work its magic. Keep an eye on the tamales while they are defrosting. You don’t want them to get too hot and start cooking. If you notice that they are starting to cook, stop the microwave, and let them cool down for a bit before starting again.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Once the defrosting time is up, it’s time to check if the tamales are done. Start by gently touching the tamales. If they still feel a bit frozen, put them back in the microwave for another minute or so. If they feel soft and pliable, they are ready to be reheated. You can also check the internal temperature of the tamales using a food thermometer. The ideal temperature should be around 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Reheat the Tamales
Now that your tamales are defrosted, it’s time to reheat them. You can do this in the microwave, or you can transfer them to a steamer or oven for an extra boost of heat. If you choose to reheat them in the microwave, set the power to high and microwave them for about 1 minute per tamale, or until they are piping hot. If you are using a steamer or oven, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for reheating tamales.
Conclusion
Defrosting tamales in the microwave is a quick and easy method that ensures your tamales remain moist and delicious. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite Mexican dish in no time. So, the next time you find yourself with a batch of frozen tamales, don’t hesitate to defrost them in the microwave. Your taste buds will thank you!