Red Pork Tamales (Tamales Rojos)

Learn how to make authentic red pork tamales at home with this easy recipe. Juicy, spicy, and wrapped in soft masa. Perfect for family dinners!

If you’ve ever craved the rich, spicy flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine, then red pork tamales (tamales rojos) are a must-try. These homemade pork tamales are packed with tender, flavorful meat and wrapped in soft, steamed masa. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen, this easy tamales recipe will guide you through every step.

Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. They are made by spreading a layer of masa (a dough made from corn) on a corn husk, filling it with a savory or sweet filling, and then steaming until cooked. The result is a delicious, portable meal that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making red pork tamales from scratch. You’ll learn how to prepare the filling, make the masa dough, and assemble and steam the tamales to perfection. Let’s get started!

What Are Red Pork Tamales?

Red pork tamales, or tamales rojos, are a classic Mexican dish made with tender, slow-cooked pork filling wrapped in a soft masa dough. The filling is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and garlic, giving it a rich, spicy flavor. The masa dough is made from cornmeal, lard, and broth, which gives it a light, fluffy texture.

Ingredients for Red Pork Tamales

To make authentic red pork tamales, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Pork Filling:
• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• For the Masa Dough:
• 4 cups masa harina (corn flour)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup lard or vegetable shortening
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• For Assembly:
• Corn husks, soaked in warm water

How to Make Red Pork Tamales – Step by Step

Follow these steps to create delicious red pork tamales at home:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Filling

In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Once cooked, shred the pork and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Masa Dough

In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, chicken broth, lard, baking powder, and salt. Mix until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. If the dough is too dry, add a little more broth. If it’s too wet, add a bit more masa harina.

Step 3: Assemble the Tamales

Take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of masa dough onto the center, leaving a border around the edges. Place a spoonful of the shredded pork filling in the center of the dough. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up to enclose the tamale. Repeat with the remaining husks, dough, and filling.

Step 4: Steam the Tamales

Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with a few inches of water. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer, making sure they are not too tightly packed. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 45-60 minutes, or until the masa is firm and pulls away from the husk.

Expert Tips for Perfect Red Pork Tamales

Making tamales can be a labor of love, but these tips will help you achieve the best results:

• Use Quality Ingredients: The key to flavorful tamales is using high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh pork shoulder and authentic masa harina for the best taste.
• Soak the Corn Husks: Soaking the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes makes them pliable and easier to work with.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the tamales, as this can cause the masa to break apart during steaming.

Serving Suggestions

Red pork tamales are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of toppings and sides. Try them with:

• Salsa verde or roja
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Mexican rice
• Refried beans

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover tamales, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes. You can also freeze tamales for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, steam for 20-25 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe focuses on red pork tamales, there are many variations you can try:

• Chicken Tamales: Replace the pork with shredded chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Tamales: Use a filling of cheese, beans, or vegetables instead of meat.
• Spicy Tamales: Add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicier kick.

Nutritional Benefits

Tamales are a hearty and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The pork filling is rich in protein, while the masa dough offers energy-sustaining carbs. Additionally, the spices used in the filling, such as chili powder and cumin, have anti-inflammatory properties. For more information on the health benefits of spices, check out this study on the anti-inflammatory effects of spices.

Common Questions About Red Pork Tamales

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying red pork tamales:

For more delicious Mexican recipes, check out our chicken tikka masala or beef enchiladas recipes. Additionally, you can learn more about the history of tamales from History.com.

• Use Room Temperature Lard: Bring the lard to room temperature before mixing it with the masa harina. This ensures a smoother dough and better texture.
• Don’t Skip the Soaking: Soaking the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes makes them pliable and easier to work with.
• Keep the Masa Moist: If the masa dough feels too dry, add a little more broth to achieve the right consistency.
• Steam Evenly: Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer to ensure they cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
• Test for Doneness: To check if the tamales are done, remove one from the steamer and let it cool slightly. The masa should pull away from the husk easily.
• Experiment with Fillings: While pork is traditional, don’t be afraid to try other fillings like chicken, beef, or even cheese and vegetables.
• Make Ahead: Tamales can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Serve with Sides: Pair your tamales with classic Mexican sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.