Description
Pork Tamales Rojos are a cherished Mexican dish that embodies warmth and tradition. These savory tamales feature fluffy masa enveloping a rich filling of tender pork simmered in a flavorful red chili sauce. Perfect for festive gatherings or casual family dinners, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. The combination of spices and customizable heat level allows you to make them just the way you like. Whether served with zesty salsa verde or creamy Mexican crema, these tamales are a delightful comfort food that brings people together.
Ingredients
- 50 corn husks
- 5 lbs pork shoulder
- 12 dried guajillo chiles
- 4 dried ancho chiles
- 4 dried pasilla negro chiles
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cups water or chicken stock
- 6 cloves garlic
- 2 white onions
- 2 jalapeños
- 1 tablespoon Chimayo chili powder (optional)
- 4 teaspoons ground cumin
- 4 teaspoons Mexican oregano
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups lard
- 4½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 8 cups Maseca – Instant corn masa mix
- 1 cup reserved pork rojo sauce
- 7 cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the pork filling by seasoning cubed pork shoulder, softening and blending the chiles, and simmering them until tender.
- Whip the lard until fluffy, then mix in masa and reserved pork rojo sauce to create a spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the tamales by spreading masa on soaked corn husks, adding pork filling, folding, and steaming.
- Steam for about 1 to 1¼ hours until masa separates easily from the husk.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tamale (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Soak corn husks for at least an hour before use to prevent tearing. Adjust spice levels by modifying the type and amount of chiles used in the filling. Allow tamales to cool slightly before serving for optimal flavor and texture.