Masa Preparada
Experience the heart of traditional Mexican cuisine with this recipe for *Masa Preparada*, a fluffy, rich dough that forms the foundation of perfect tamales. Made with just five simple ingredients—corn masa harina, lard or shortening, chicken broth, baking powder, and salt—this versatile recipe offers an authentic yet approachable way to craft tamales at home. Whipping the lard until light and airy sets this masa apart, giving it a delicate texture that will result in irresistibly tender tamales. A quick "float test" ensures the dough is perfectly prepared, while the option to use vegetable broth and shortening makes this recipe adaptable for vegetarian diets. Ready in just 30 minutes, this masa is your go-to canvas for savory or sweet tamale fillings, from spicy shredded meats to luscious dulce de leche.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups Corn masa harina (instant corn flour)
- 4 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup Lard (or vegetable shortening for vegetarian option)
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn masa harina, baking powder, and salt until well-combined.
In a separate bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to whip the lard (or shortening) until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Gradually add the dry masa mixture into the whipped lard, mixing on medium speed. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the chicken broth, adding broth a cup at a time.
Mix until the masa reaches a smooth and slightly fluffy consistency. It should be thick but spreadable and hold together when you pinch it between your fingers. If too dry, add more broth a tablespoon at a time. If too wet, sprinkle in a little more masa harina.
Test the masa by dropping a small ball of it into a glass of water. If it floats, it’s ready. If it sinks, beat it a little longer to incorporate more air.
Once prepared, the masa is ready to be spread onto corn husks and filled with your chosen tamale fillings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
199 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.9 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 11 mg | 4% | |
| Sodium | 372 mg | 16% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19.2 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 2.4 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 37 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 53 mg | 1% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
