I have always been a fan of Mexican cuisine, and one of my absolute favorites is tamales. There’s just something about the combination of tender masa dough, flavorful filling, and a soft corn husk wrapper that makes my mouth water. However, I used to think that making tamales at home was a laborious and time-consuming process. That was until I discovered a quick and easy method to steam tamales in the microwave. In this article, I will walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly steamed tamales using just your microwave.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the steaming process, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Tamales: Whether you make your own tamales from scratch or buy them pre-made, ensure you have a batch ready to be steamed.
– Microwave-safe dish or plate: Choose a dish or plate large enough to hold all your tamales without overcrowding.
– Water: You’ll need water to create steam in the microwave and to help keep your tamales moist during the steaming process.
– Plastic wrap: This will be necessary to cover your dish and trap the steam inside.
Prepping Your Tamales
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to prep your tamales for steaming. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Untie the Tamales
If you’re using pre-made tamales, they are likely tied at both ends. Carefully untie the ends of each tamale, making sure not to tear the corn husk wrapper.
Step 2: Remove the Corn Husks
Peel off the corn husks gently, revealing the delicious masa dough and filling inside. Be careful not to remove too much of the corn husk, as you’ll need it to help hold your tamale together during the steaming process.
Step 3: Arrange the Tamales
Take your microwave-safe dish or plate and arrange your tamales in a single layer. Make sure to leave a bit of space between each tamale to allow steam to circulate evenly.
Steaming Tamales in the Microwave
Now that your tamales are prepped and ready, it’s time to steam them in the microwave. Follow these steps:
Step 4: Add Water
Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of your dish or plate, ensuring it covers the entire surface but doesn’t submerge the tamales. The exact amount of water may vary depending on the size of your dish, but a quarter cup usually works well.
Step 5: Cover with Plastic Wrap
Place a layer of plastic wrap over the top of your dish, making sure it’s tightly sealed around the edges. This will keep the steam trapped inside, allowing the tamales to cook evenly.
Step 6: Microwave in Intervals
Place your dish in the microwave and set the cooking time. I recommend starting with five-minute intervals at medium power, checking the tamales after each interval. The cooking time required may vary depending on the number of tamales you’re steaming and the power of your microwave.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
After each interval, carefully remove the plastic wrap and check the tamales for doneness. The masa dough should be cooked through and no longer sticky to the touch. The filling should be heated and thoroughly cooked. If necessary, rewrap the tamales and continue microwaving in one to two-minute intervals until they’re fully cooked.
Serving and Enjoying the Tamales
Once your tamales are perfectly steamed in the microwave, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are a few tips to elevate your tamale experience:
– Serve with your favorite toppings: From salsa and guacamole to sour cream and cheese, feel free to get creative with your tamale toppings.
– Pair with sides: Tamales make a delicious main course, but they can also be paired with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
– Share the joy: Tamales are meant to be enjoyed with friends and family. Consider hosting a tamale party where everyone can customize their own toppings and savor the flavors together.
In conclusion, steaming tamales in the microwave can be a quick and easy method to enjoy this traditional Mexican delicacy in the comfort of your own home. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly steamed tamales with tender masa dough and flavorful fillings. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, prep your tamales, and steam them in the microwave for a delicious and hassle-free culinary experience.