Instant corn masa mix for delicious tamales.

Corn Treated With Hydrated Lime.

Preparing the Tamales: 1-1/4 lb pork (chicken or beef may be substituted ); 1-1/2 oz pasilla chili; 1/8 cup vegetable oil; 3/4 cup water; 1/2 tbsp salt; 16 corn husks; 2-1/2 lb prepared masa (step 1). 1. Cover the meat with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours until the meat is well cooked. Lightly saute the pasilla chili in vegetable oil. In a blender, mix the chilies and the water. 2. Cut the meat into small pieces and fry in vegetable oil until golden brown. Add salt and chili mixture and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. 3. Soak the corn husks for a few minutes and drain well. 4. Spread the prepared masa evenly over each corn husk and add a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center. Close the husk, folding inward all sides towards the center. Place the tamale in the steamer. 5. Cover with a wet cloth and steam for about 1 hour. Preparing the Masa: 2 cups Maseca Tamal corn flour; 1-1/3 cups chicken broth or water; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 2/3 cup lard or vegetable shortening. 1. Mix Maseca Tamal corn flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. 2. Add the chicken broth or water and mix thoroughly with your hands to make a soft-moist dough. 3. In another bowl, mix the lard or vegetable shortening until light and fluffy. Add the masa and continue beating until the batter becomes smooth and slightly sticky. Prepare your tamales with the filling of your choice.