How to Steam Tamales Without a Steamer?
To steam tamales without a steamer, there are several alternative methods you can use.
One method is to use a large pot with a vegetable steamer basket or rack.
Fill the pot with enough water to reach just below the bottom of the steamer basket, then arrange the hydrated corn husks on the steamer basket and place the tamales on top.
Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for about 1 to 1 and a half hours, or until they are cooked through.
Make sure to check the water level periodically and add more if needed.
Another method is to use a pot with a tight-fitting lid.
Fill the pot with enough water to reach about 1/3 of the way up the sides, then place a heatproof dish or metal colander inside the pot.
Arrange the corn husks and tamales on top of the dish or colander, cover the pot with the lid, and steam the tamales for 1 to 1 and a half hours.
Again, check the water level periodically and add more if needed.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. Contrary to popular belief, tamales were not originally wrapped in corn husks but in banana leaves. Corn husks were introduced as a replacement due to the abundance of corn in the Americas.
2. The word “tamale” originates from the Nahuatl language, spoken by the Aztecs. It comes from the word “tamalli,” which means “wrapped.”
3. Tamales have a rich history dating back more than 5,000 years, with evidence of their existence found in ancient Mayan pottery.
4. In some regions of Mexico, tamales are considered a traditional dish to celebrate important milestones in a person’s life, such as births, weddings, and religious ceremonies.
5. The process of making tamales is often a communal activity, with multiple family members or friends coming together to prepare the masa, fillings, and wrap them in corn husks. This tradition fosters a sense of unity and togetherness within the community.
Alternative Methods For Steaming Tamales Without A Steamer Pot
When it comes to steaming tamales, the preferred method is using a traditional tamalera steamer pot. However, if you don’t have one on hand, there are alternative methods you can use. These include:
-
Instant pot: If you have an instant pot, you can easily steam tamales using the steam function. Place a steamer shelf or rack inside the pot, add water to the bottom, and arrange the tamales on top. Close the lid and set the instant pot to the steam function. Cook for the recommended time for perfectly steamed tamales without a steamer pot.
-
Regular large pot with vegetable steamer basket or rack: Another option is to use a regular large pot with a vegetable steamer basket or rack. Place the steamer basket or rack inside the pot and fill it with enough water to reach just below the bottom of the steamer basket. Place hydrated corn husks on the steamer basket and arrange the tamales on top, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until cooked through. Check the water level periodically and add more if needed. Let the tamales cool slightly before serving.
-
Basic items found at home: If you don’t have a vegetable steamer basket or rack, you can still steam tamales using basic items found at home. One option is to use a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Fill it with enough water to reach about 1/3 of the way up the sides. Place a heatproof dish or metal colander inside the pot and arrange the hydrated corn husks and tamales on top, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cover the pot with the lid and steam the tamales for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until cooked through. Again, check the water level periodically and add more if needed. Allow the tamales to cool slightly before serving.
-
Note: It is important to maintain the water level and avoid overcrowding the tamales to ensure even and thorough steaming.
Using A Tamalera Steamer Pot For Traditional Tamales
The traditional method for steaming tamales is to use a tamalera steamer pot. This specialized pot can be purchased at a Mexican or Hispanic food store, or online.
To use a tamalera:
- Fill the pot with warm water.
- Place a steamer shelf inside the pot.
- Arrange corn husks around the shelf.
- Place the raw tamales on top of the husks.
- Cover the pot with extra corn husks or aluminum foil, making a small hole in the foil.
- Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high.
- Allow the tamales to steam until the water boils.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue steaming the tamales for 1-2 hours, depending on the pot size and the number of tamales.
This method provides the most authentic and traditional way of steaming tamales.
“Using a tamalera steamer pot is the best way to steam tamales.”
Steaming Tamales In A Pot With A Vegetable Steamer Basket
If you don’t have a tamalera steamer pot, you can still steam tamales using a regular large pot and a vegetable steamer basket or rack.
Here’s how to do it:
- Arrange the hydrated corn husks on the steamer basket before placing the tamales on top.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the tamales, as they need space to steam evenly. Arrange the tamales upright on the basket, without squeezing them in too tightly.
- Fill the pot with enough water to have the water level right below the bottom of the steamer basket.
- Cover the pot with a lid and turn the heat to high to bring the water to a boil.
- Once the water boils, reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a steady steam.
- Steam the tamales for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Periodically check the water level and add more if needed.
-
Once the tamales are cooked, let them cool slightly before serving.
-
Arrange hydrated corn husks on the steamer basket
- Do not overcrowd the tamales on the basket
- Cover the pot with a lid
- Reduce heat to maintain a steady steam
- Periodically check and add water if needed
- Allow tamales to cool slightly before serving.
Steaming Tamales With A Tight-Fitting Lid
Another method for steaming tamales without a steamer pot is to use a regular large pot with a tight-fitting lid.
Here are the steps:
- Fill the pot with enough water to reach about 1/3 of the way up the sides.
- Place a heatproof dish or a metal colander inside the pot to create a platform for the tamales.
- Arrange the hydrated corn husks and tamales on top of the dish or colander, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cover the pot with the lid to create a sealed environment for steaming.
- Steam the tamales for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Periodically check the water level and add more if needed.
- Allow the tamales to cool slightly before serving.
Note: It’s important to check the water level periodically and add more if needed.
Steaming Tamales Using Aluminum Foil And A Heat-Proof Plate
If you don’t have a steamer basket or rack available, aluminum foil and a heat-proof plate can be used to steam tamales. Simply crumple up aluminum foil into balls and place them in the bottom of a large pot to create a platform for the plate. The plate should be heat-proof and fit securely on top of the foil balls.
Arrange the hydrated corn husks and tamales on the plate, making sure not to overcrowd them. The tamales can be covered with more hydrated corn husks or aluminum foil, and the lid should be placed tightly on the pot.
Steam the tamales for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until they are cooked through. Check the water level periodically and add more if needed.
Allow the tamales to cool slightly before serving.
Steaming Tamales With The “Overturned Mug” Or “Sieve Steamer” Methods
If you’re looking for additional alternative methods to steam tamales without a steamer pot, the “Overturned Mug” and “Sieve Steamer” methods can be used. These methods require a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, but they can still deliver delicious and perfectly steamed tamales.
For the “Overturned Mug” method, you’ll need a large pot, 3-4 heat-proof mugs, and a heat-proof plate. Here’s how to do it:
- Invert the mugs in the pot and place the plate on top to create a stable foundation for the tamales.
- Depending on the size of your pot, you may need more or fewer mugs.
- Arrange the tamales vertically or horizontally on the plate, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Fill the pot with water until it reaches half the height of the mugs.
- Bring the water to a boil, cover the pot with a lid, and allow the tamales to cook as usual.
The “Sieve Steamer” method requires a rounded sieve, a large pot, and heat-proof glasses. Follow these steps:
- Invert the cups in the pot and fill them with water until it reaches half the height of the cups.
- Place the sieve securely on top of the cups, creating a makeshift steamer basket.
- Arrange the tamales over the sieve and cover the pot with a lid.
- Steam the tamales for the recommended cooking time, and you’ll have perfectly steamed tamales using this alternative method.
In conclusion, while a tamalera steamer pot is the traditional tool for steaming tamales, there are various alternative methods available. Whether you use an instant pot, a regular large pot with a vegetable steamer basket or rack, aluminum foil and a heat-proof plate, or get creative with overturned mugs or a sieve steamer, you can enjoy delicious steamed tamales without the need for a traditional steamer pot. So go ahead and experiment with these alternative methods and enjoy your homemade tamales!
- Alternative methods for steaming tamales:
- “Overturned Mug” method
- “Sieve Steamer” method
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you steam tamales on the stove?
Yes, you can steam tamales on the stove. Steaming tamales on the stove ensures thorough heating and helps to retain their moisture and flavor. Simply place the tamales in a steamer basket or a pot with a steamer insert, and steam them until the internal temperature reaches 165℉. This traditional method is a tried and true way to enjoy perfectly heated tamales with a deliciously tender texture.
How can I steam without a steamer?
If you don’t have a steamer, you can create a makeshift steamer by using a heat-safe colander. Simply place the colander inside a large pot with a lid, and you’ve got yourself a steaming setup. If you’re steaming smaller items, like vegetables, place them directly inside the colander. For larger foods such as corn on the cob or lobsters, flip the colander over and arrange the items on top, allowing the steam to circulate and cook them thoroughly. This simple hack allows you to enjoy the benefits of steaming even without a dedicated steamer.
Do you steam tamales in water?
Yes, steaming tamales in water is a traditional and effective method. To steam tamales, start by boiling water in a pot and placing a steamer basket inside. Loosen the corn husks slightly at the top and arrange them upright. Cover with a lid and let them steam for approximately 10-15 minutes. It is important to check periodically to ensure that the tamales are heated all the way through. This gentle steaming method helps to retain the moisture and flavors of the tamales, resulting in delicious and tender treats.
Can you fry tamales instead of steaming it?
Absolutely! Pan frying tamales is a delicious alternative to steaming them. Not only does it give them a crispy outer layer, but it also helps retain their texture and prevent them from becoming mushy. This method elevates the tamale-eating experience and adds a delightful crunch to every bite. So next time you have some tamales, skip the steaming and give frying a try. You won’t be disappointed!