Delicious Beef Tamales Recipe for Festive Gatherings

Beef tamales, a delightful explosion of flavors wrapped in a soft corn masa, are like a warm hug on a plate. The savory beef filling dances with spices, creating an aroma that will make your mouth water faster than you can say “tamale.” Imagine sitting around the table with friends and family, each bite bursting with tradition and love, while laughter fills the air. These little bundles of joy are perfect for any occasion – from festive gatherings to cozy nights in.

Let me tell you, beef tamales aren’t just food; they’re a memory-maker. I remember the first time I tried making them with my abuela. We spent hours assembling them, her laughter echoing through the kitchen like music. The smell of simmering beef and spices lingered in the air, filling our hearts as well as our bellies. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just because it’s Tuesday, these tamales promise to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Ingredients for Beef Tamales

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Dried Corn Husks: Soak these in warm water for about an hour before using them; they’ll become pliable and easy to work with.
• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they bring a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Chili Powder: This spice adds warmth without overwhelming heat—adjust according to your preference.
• Cumin: A must-have spice that gives tamales their distinctive earthy flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for moisture in both the meat filling and masa dough.
• Masa Harina: This special corn flour is essential for making the tamale dough light and fluffy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Beef Tamales

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Corn Husks

Soak dried corn husks in warm water for about an hour until soft and pliable. This prevents them from cracking when you wrap your tamales.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.

Step 3: Season Your Filling

Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef mixture. Pour in chicken broth gradually until you achieve desired moisture. Let cool while preparing masa.

Step 4: Make the Masa Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina with baking powder and salt. Gradually add softened butter (or lard) and chicken broth until you reach a smooth consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tamales

Spread about two tablespoons of masa dough onto the center of each soaked corn husk. Add a spoonful of beef filling on top. Fold sides over filling and roll up from one end to the other.

Step 6: Steam Your Tamales

Arrange tamales upright in a steamer pot or basket lined with leftover corn husks. Steam over boiling water for about an hour until masa is firm to touch.

Transfer to plates and serve with salsa or guacamole for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every bite of these flavorful bundles packed with nostalgia and love!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To get the best beef tamales, start by preparing the filling and masa dough simultaneously. While the beef simmers with spices, mix up the masa to ensure everything comes together seamlessly for a perfect feast.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to spice up your beef tamales! Swap out traditional spices for smoky chipotle or add some roasted veggies for an extra flavor punch. You can even make them sweet with cinnamon and chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous.

Storing & Reheating

For leftovers, wrap beef tamales tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, steam them for about 20 minutes or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Sometimes, I think my friends come over just for my beef tamales! The last time I made them, we ended up having a mini fiesta right in my kitchen, complete with mariachi music and questionable dance moves.

FAQs:

What are Beef Tamales?

Beef tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made from masa (corn dough) filled with seasoned beef. The masa is wrapped around the filling and steamed in corn husks, resulting in a soft, flavorful treat. They can be served with various salsas or toppings for added flavor. Many families have their unique recipes passed down through generations, making each version special. Making tamales can be a fun communal activity, often enjoyed during holidays and celebrations.

How do you prepare the masa for Beef Tamales?

To prepare the masa for beef tamales, start by mixing masa harina with baking powder, salt, and broth until it reaches a smooth consistency. The mixture should be light and fluffy to ensure that the tamales cook evenly. Incorporating lard or vegetable shortening adds richness and moisture to the dough. Once combined, spread the masa on soaked corn husks, add your beef filling, and fold them up before steaming to perfection.

Can I freeze Beef Tamales?

Yes, you can freeze beef tamales for later enjoyment. After cooking, let them cool completely before wrapping each tamale in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for longer storage. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat in a steamer or microwave until warmed through. Freezing allows you to enjoy delicious homemade beef tamales any time of year.

What toppings pair well with Beef Tamales?

Beef tamales are versatile and can be paired with various toppings for enhanced flavor. Common toppings include red or green salsa, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and diced onions. Crumbled queso fresco or avocado slices also make excellent additions. These toppings not only add taste but also create a visually appealing dish that guests will love at gatherings or family dinners.

Conclusion for Beef Tamales:

In summary, beef tamales are a delightful Mexican dish that combines flavorful beef filling with soft corn masa. Preparing them involves making a rich masa dough and wrapping it around seasoned beef before steaming. They are perfect for freezing and reheating later, making them convenient for busy days. Topping your tamales with salsa or fresh ingredients elevates this classic dish even further. Enjoying homemade beef tamales is not just about food; it’s about tradition and sharing joyful moments with loved ones.

Print

Savory Beef Tamales

• Author: Camiliya
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 tamales 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Steaming
• Cuisine: Mexican

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Indulge in the comforting delight of homemade beef tamales, featuring seasoned beef wrapped in soft corn masa—perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup softened butter (or lard)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 12 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for an hour

---

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef mixture.
4. Gradually pour in chicken broth until desired moisture is achieved. Let cool.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina with baking powder and salt.
6. Gradually add softened butter (or lard) and chicken broth until you reach a smooth consistency.
7. Spread about two tablespoons of masa dough onto the center of each soaked corn husk.
8. Add a spoonful of beef filling on top.
9. Fold sides over filling and roll up from one end to the other.
10. Arrange tamales upright in a steamer pot lined with leftover corn husks.
11. Steam over boiling water for about one hour until masa is firm to touch.

---

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tamale (90g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, mix in chopped green chilies or cheese into your filling. - Leftover tamales can be frozen for later enjoyment—just wrap them tightly before storing.