A Beginner’s Guide to Making Tamales with Spice Orbs for the Holiday and Football Season

The holiday season is a time for tradition, warmth, and gathering with loved ones. One dish that perfectly encapsulates these values is tamales. Whether you’re celebrating with family or tailgating for a big game, tamales made with Spice Orbs are the ideal way to share delicious, festive flavors. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to making tamales that will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Why Tamales?

Tamales are a beloved dish in many households, especially during the holidays. Their rich, savory fillings wrapped in a soft, flavorful masa make them perfect for a cozy dinner or as game day snacks. With Spice Orbs, you can simplify the seasoning process and ensure consistent, bold flavors every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Masa:

• 4 cups of masa
• 3 cups of warm chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup of lard or vegetable shortening
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt to taste

For the Filling:

• Shredded chicken, pork, or beef (about 3+ lbs)
• 1 medium Spice Orb (choose Birria, Carnitas, or Mole for authentic flavors)
• Corn husks, soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• Cook your meat according to the instructions in your package.
• We recommend cooking your protein a day ahead to have it ready to use

2. Make the Masa:

• In a large bowl, beat the lard or shortening until fluffy. Gradually add the masa harina, baking powder, and warm broth, mixing until a soft dough forms. Season with salt as needed.

3. Assemble the Tamales:

• Lay a soaked corn husk flat and spread a thin layer of masa dough in the center.
• Place a spoonful of the prepared meat filling onto the masa.
• Fold the sides of the husk inward and roll it up. Fold the narrow end up to seal.

4. Steam the Tamales:

• Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer pot. Steam for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the masa pulls away from the husk easily.

Game Day Serving Tips

Pair your tamales with game day favorites like:

• Loaded Nachos with Al Pastor from Spice Orbs: For a quick snack that packs a punch.
• Birria Sliders: Tender meat mixed with melted cheese on slider buns.
• Spicy Rice Bowls: Topped with Carnitas or Fajitas from Spice Orbs for added zest.

Pro Tips for Perfect Tamales

• Add the Spice Orbs early in your cooking planning process to ensure you have meat prepped to use. 
• Keep your corn husks damp to make spreading the masa easier.
• Check water levels in the steamer pot periodically to avoid drying out the tamales.

Make your holiday and football gatherings memorable with homemade tamales infused with Spice Orbs. The unique flavors will turn your table into a celebration of comfort and taste.

Get your Spice Orbs today and start your tamale-making adventure!