Are you craving the delicious, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of tamales but don’t know how to reheat them to perfection?
Well, fret no more!
In this article, we will explore the various methods – steaming, oven, Instant Pot, and microwave – to revive those delectable bundles of flavor in just 10-30 minutes.
So, grab hold of your taste buds and get ready for a mouthwatering journey!
reheating tamales
To reheat tamales, you can use several methods.
One option is the steaming method, where you fill a steamer with water and steam the tamales in their husks for 15 to 20 minutes (or 25 to 30 minutes if frozen).
Another option is the oven method, where you preheat the oven to 425°, wrap each tamale tightly in aluminum foil, and heat them for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
The Instant Pot method involves heating the Instant Pot to high, dampening the tamales, and warming them for about 10 minutes, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
Lastly, the microwave method involves wrapping each tamale in a damp paper towel, placing them on a microwave-safe plate with space between them, and heating for 1 to 2 minutes.
If the tamales are frozen, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before microwaving.
Key Points:
- Reheating tamales can be done using several methods
- The steaming method involves steaming tamales in their husks for 15-20 minutes (or 25-30 minutes if frozen)
- The oven method requires wrapping each tamale tightly in aluminum foil and heating them at 425° for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through
- The Instant Pot method involves heating the Instant Pot to high, dampening the tamales, and warming them for about 10 minutes while ensuring spacing for even cooking
- The microwave method includes wrapping each tamale in a damp paper towel, placing them on a microwave-safe plate with space between, and microwaving for 1-2 minutes
- If tamales are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator before microwaving.
reheating tamales – Watch Video
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Pro Tips:
1. Reheating tamales in a steamer yields the juiciest results: Unlike reheating them in a microwave, using a steamer helps preserve the moisture of tamales, resulting in a more flavorful and tender treat.
2. Freeze tamales for a quick and convenient meal: Tamales can be easily frozen after cooking, allowing you to have a convenient and delicious meal option whenever you desire. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil before freezing, and reheat when ready to eat.
3. Tamales aren’t just for dinner: In some Mexican households, it is customary to enjoy tamales for breakfast, especially during holidays or special occasions. Paired with a hot cup of coffee or champurrado (a traditional Mexican hot chocolate), they make for a delightful start to the day.
4. Tamales have ancient origins: Tamales have been enjoyed for centuries. The earliest evidence of tamale consumption dates back to 5000 BC in the region that is now known as present-day Mexico. This makes tamales one of the oldest traditional dishes still widely enjoyed today.
5. Tamales have many regional variations: While tamales are commonly associated with Mexican cuisine, they have various regional adaptations throughout Central and South America. Each region puts its own unique spin on the beloved dish, using different fillings, wrapping techniques, and even corn husk colors. Exploring these regional variations can be a fascinating culinary journey.
Steaming Method: How To Reheat Tamales On The Stovetop
When it comes to reheating tamales, steaming is one of the most popular and effective methods. Steaming allows the tamale to retain its moisture and prevents it from drying out. To reheat tamales using the steaming method, you will need a steamer and water.
To begin, fill the steamer with water and heat it to medium heat. While the water is heating, prepare your tamales. Place the tamales in the steamer, making sure they are still in their husks. Steam the tamales for 15 to 20 minutes. If the tamales are frozen, steam them for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Steaming tamales is a foolproof method that ensures the tamales are evenly heated throughout. It also helps to preserve their authentic taste and texture. With the steaming method, you can enjoy perfectly reheated tamales that taste just as good as when they were fresh.
Oven Method: Quick And Easy Way To Reheat Tamales In The Oven
Another popular method for reheating tamales is using the oven. The oven method is quick, easy, and yields delicious results. To reheat tamales in the oven, you will need aluminum foil and a preheated oven set to 425°F.
Start by wrapping each tamale tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped inside. This will help to prevent the tamales from drying out during the reheating process. Place the wrapped tamales in the oven and heat them for about 20 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure even heating.
The oven method is great for reheating a large number of tamales at once, making it ideal for gatherings and parties. It also gives the tamales a slightly crispy exterior while still keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
Instant Pot Method: Reheating Tamales Made Simple With An Instant Pot
If you own an Instant Pot, reheating tamales just got even easier. The Instant Pot method allows for quick and convenient reheating without compromising on taste or texture. To reheat tamales using an Instant Pot, follow these simple steps.
- Heat your Instant Pot to the high-pressure setting.
- Dampen the tamales slightly by lightly sprinkling water on them or using a damp cloth to cover them. This prevents them from drying out during the reheating process.
- Place the tamales in the Instant Pot, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook for about 10 minutes.
- The high pressure will quickly heat the tamales, resulting in perfectly reheated and flavorful treats.
The Instant Pot method is particularly useful for saving time while still enjoying the rich flavors of reheated tamales. It offers a hassle-free way to enjoy this traditional dish with minimal effort.
- Quick and convenient reheating
- Prevents tamales from drying out
- Spaced apart for even cooking
- High pressure for quick heating
- Perfectly reheated and flavorful tamales
Microwave Method: A Fast Way To Warm Up Your Tamales
For those seeking the quickest and most convenient way to reheat tamales, the microwave method is the perfect solution. Although it may not produce the same level of authenticity as the steaming or oven methods, the microwave method is ideal for those who are short on time.
To reheat tamales in the microwave, start by wrapping each tamale in a damp paper towel. This will help to keep them moist during the reheating process. Place the wrapped tamales on a microwave-safe plate, ensuring there is enough space between them for even heating.
Heat the tamales in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. This time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so it’s best to check on the tamales periodically to prevent them from becoming overcooked or drying out.
It’s important to note that if you have frozen tamales, you should thaw them in the refrigerator before microwaving. This will ensure that they heat evenly and retain their original texture.
The microwave method offers a quick and easy way to enjoy reheated tamales in a matter of minutes. While it may not provide the same level of moisture and texture as other methods, it is a great option for those who are short on time or don’t have access to other reheating methods.
Overall, whether you choose to steam, oven, Instant Pot, or microwave your tamales, reheating them using these methods will ensure that you can enjoy them again and again, without sacrificing their delicious taste and texture. So go ahead, try out these methods and savor the flavors of perfectly reheated tamales!
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You may need to know these questions about reheating tamales
How do you reheat tamales without drying them out?
To reheat tamales without drying them out, one method is to use a steamer. Start by placing a heat-safe steamer basket in a pot and filling it with water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket. Arrange the tamales in the basket, cover with a lid, and bring the water to a simmer. Steam the tamales for approximately 15-20 minutes, ensuring the water remains at a gentle simmer throughout. This gentle steam will help retain the moisture in the tamales, keeping them deliciously moist without drying them out.
Another way to reheat tamales while preserving their moisture is to use a microwave. First, lightly dampen a paper towel and wrap it around each tamale. Place the wrapped tamales on a microwave-safe plate and cover them loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave the tamales on medium power in 30-second intervals, checking their temperature and flipping them occasionally until heated through. The moist paper towel and controlled microwaving will keep the tamales moist and flavorful.
How long to boil tamales in foil to reheat?
To reheat tamales in foil, it is recommended to boil them for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Start by tightly wrapping each tamale with 2 to 3 layers of foil, preventing any air from getting trapped. Place the wrapped tamales on a sheet pan, leaving space between them to allow for even cooking. Flip the sheet pan halfway through the process to ensure uniform heat distribution. By following these steps, your reheated tamales should be ready to enjoy in no time.
How long to reheat tamales by steaming?
To reheat tamales by steaming, it is recommended to place them in a hot steamer for approximately 15-20 minutes if thawed, or around 20-30 minutes if frozen. Another option is oven baking, where the tamales should be wrapped in foil and placed on a sheet pan at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long do you let tamales rest after steaming?
To ensure the perfect tamale, it’s important to let them rest for a few minutes after steaming. After cooking for about 90 minutes and checking the internal temperature, allow the tamales to rest for approximately 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the tamale to become tender and moist, resulting in a delicious culinary experience.
Reference source
https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-reheat-tamales/
https://www.tastingtable.com/851512/the-absolute-best-ways-to-reheat-tamales/
https://www.themanual.com/food-and-drink/how-to-reheat-tamales-different-ways/
https://insanelygoodrecipes.com/how-to-reheat-tamales/
