Argentine Tamales
Authentic Argentine corn tamales, a specialty from the Northwest region, featuring a savory meat filling encased in tender corn masa. This is a labor of love that results in a truly delicious and traditional dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 10 ears Fresh corn(Kernels should be fresh and sweet for the best masa.)
- 500 g Beef(A cut like chuck or brisket, finely diced or ground for the filling.)
- 1 large Onion(Finely chopped.)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(Any color, finely chopped.)
- 3 cloves Garlic(Minced.)
- 2 tablespoons Paprika(Sweet or smoked paprika.)
- 1 tablespoon Cumin(Ground cumin.)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil or lard
- 1/2 cup Beef broth or water(For the filling.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- approx. 30-40 Corn husks(Soaked in hot water until pliable, enough to wrap 20 tamales.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the corn masa: Shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cobs. Reserve about 1 cup of kernels for the filling. Process the remaining corn kernels in a food processor or blender until a coarse meal forms. If you have access to a traditional corn grinder, use that for a more authentic texture. You should have a thick, slightly wet masa. Set aside.
⏱️ 45 minutes - 2
Make the meat filling: Heat the oil or lard in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced beef and cook until browned on all sides. Drain off excess fat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and cumin, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the reserved 1 cup of corn kernels, beef broth or water, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the filling is rich and flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let the filling cool slightly.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 3
Assemble the tamales: Lay a soaked corn husk flat, shiny side up. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the corn masa onto the wider end of the husk, forming an even layer. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the meat filling onto the center of the masa. Fold one side of the corn husk over the filling, then fold the other side over to enclose it. Fold the narrow end of the husk up to seal the tamale. If needed, use another corn husk strip to tie it securely. Repeat with the remaining masa and filling.
⏱️ 45 minutes - 4
Steam the tamales: Arrange the tamales upright in a large steamer pot, ensuring they are not packed too tightly. Add water to the pot, making sure it does not touch the bottom of the steamer basket. Cover the tamales with a layer of corn husks or a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. Cover the pot tightly with a lid. Steam over medium-high heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. The tamales are done when the masa pulls away cleanly from the husk and the husk itself is easily removed. Check the water level periodically and add more hot water if needed.
⏱️ 1 hour 45 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a more authentic texture, consider using a traditional corn grinder for the masa.
- ✓Ensure the corn husks are thoroughly soaked until pliable to prevent tearing during assembly.
- ✓This recipe is a true 'labor of love' and is best made with help from family or friends.
- ✓Taste and adjust the seasoning of both the masa and the filling before assembling.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Vegetarian: Omit the meat and use a filling of sautéed vegetables, beans, or cheese.
- With olives: Add chopped green olives to the meat filling for an extra burst of flavor.