5-Minute Tamales Recipes That’ll Save Your Dinner Plans

Written by Sarah in Dinner

Cooking has a way of bringing back memories, doesn’t it? These tamales recipes take me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen, and I’m so excited to share them with you today. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project, these delicious bites are sure to become a favorite at your table. Let’s dive into these 5-minute wonders!

Classic Chicken Tamales

Juicy, flavorful chicken wrapped in tender masa.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup green salsa
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa harina and chicken broth until smooth.
  2. Spread masa on soaked corn husks, add chicken and salsa, then fold.
  3. Steam in a pot for 30 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Try swapping chicken for pulled pork or adding jalapeños for a kick!

Sweet Corn Tamales

Sweet and comforting corn flavors wrapped in masa.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Combine masa, cornmeal, corn, and sugar in a bowl.
  2. Spread onto corn husks, roll them up, and tie with string.
  3. Steam for 20 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Add chocolate chips or a dash of vanilla for a dessert twist!

Spicy Black Bean Tamales

Hearty and packed with protein for the perfect bite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup canned black beans (mashed)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa and vegetable broth until dough forms.
  2. Spread masa on husks, top with mashed beans and cumin, fold up.
  3. Steam for 30 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Add diced peppers or cheese for extra flavor!

Veggie Fiesta Tamales

A veggie-packed delight for a colorful dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, corn)
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Combine masa with vegetable broth.
  2. Spread masa on husks, add veggies and taco seasoning, fold.
  3. Steam for 25 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick!

Breakfast Tamales

A warm, hearty breakfast wrapped in masa.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup scrambled eggs
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa with chicken broth to create dough.
  2. Spread masa, add eggs and cheese, fold husks up.
  3. Steam for 20 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Add cooked bacon or sausage for protein!

Cheese & Jalapeño Tamales

Creamy cheese with a dash of heat, a winning combination!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or jack)
  • 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Combine masa harina with vegetable broth.
  2. Spread masa, add cheese and jalapeños, fold up.
  3. Steam for 30 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Experiment with different cheese combinations for varied flavors!

BBQ Chicken Tamales

Smoky BBQ chicken for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded BBQ chicken
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa and chicken broth until smooth.
  2. Spread masa, top with BBQ chicken, fold husks.
  3. Steam for 30 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Use pulled pork for a different smoky flavor!

Mushroom & Spinach Tamales

Savor the healthy earthiness of mushrooms and greens.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup sautéed mushrooms and spinach
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa and vegetable broth until a dough forms.
  2. Spread masa, fill with mushrooms and spinach, fold.
  3. Steam for 25 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Try adding feta cheese for a different flavor dimension!

Sweets Tamales with Cinnamon

A sweet treat that’s sure to please everyone!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa, milk, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
  2. Spread the mixture onto husks, fold up tightly.
  3. Steam for 20 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Mix in chocolate pieces or dried fruits for a sweet surprise!

Dessert Berry Tamales

Sweet berries wrapped in masa for a delightful dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • Corn husks (soaked in warm water)

Process:

  1. Mix masa and water until smooth.
  2. Spread on soaked husks, add berries and sugar, fold.
  3. Steam for 20 minutes.

Make it Unique:
Add a dollop of whipped cream on top when serving!

Conclusion

Now that you have these quick and delightful tamales recipes in your hands, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Each recipe brings its own unique flavors and heartwarming comfort. I can’t wait for you to try one (or all!) of these recipes and experience that cozy feeling with every bite. Let’s enjoy the cooking journey together!

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