how to load a tamale pot

Tamale is a traditional Mexican dish that is usually wrapped in corn husks and steamed until cooked. It is a popular dish for special occasions, such as Christmas and other family gatherings, and is usually served with a side of salsa or guacamole. If you are planning to prepare this dish, it is important to know how to load a tamale pot properly. In this article, we will be discussing the steps to follow when loading a tamale pot.

Step One: Preparing the Pot

The first thing you need to do is to prepare the pot that you will use for cooking the tamales. It is best to use a large pot with a steamer basket that can hold a lot of tamales. Fill the pot with enough water to reach just below the steamer basket. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil.

Step Two: Preparing the Tamales

While the water is boiling, you can start preparing the tamales. Start by soaking the corn husks in hot water for about 30 minutes to soften them. In the meantime, prepare the filling and the masa dough. Spread the masa dough onto the flat side of the corn husks, leaving about an inch of space at the top and bottom. Add a spoonful of filling onto the masa dough and roll the tamale into a cylinder. Fold the bottom and top of the corn husk over the masa filling and tie with a piece of kitchen twine.

Step Three: Loading the Tamale Pot

Once you have prepared all the tamales, it's time to load the pot. Start by placing a layer of tamales into the steamer basket, making sure they are standing upright. Add another layer of tamales on top, alternating the direction of the tamales. Continue layering the tamales until you have filled up the pot. Make sure to leave some space at the top to allow for the steam to circulate.

Step Four: Steam the Tamales

Once you have loaded the pot, cover it with a tight-fitting lid to prevent the steam from escaping. Reduce the heat to medium and let the tamales steam for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, depending on the size of the pot, and the number of tamales loaded in the pot. You can test if the tamales are done by opening one of the top tamales and checking if the masa dough is cooked through.

Conclusion

Loading a tamale pot is a simple process that requires some preparation and attention to detail. By following these simple steps, you can prepare a delicious batch of tamales that will impress your family and friends. Just be sure to use fresh ingredients and high-quality masa dough to ensure the best results. With practice, you'll be a tamale-making expert in no time!"