LET’S MAKE TAMALES
Recipes & Learning
Learning guides are the lessons. The tamale guide board is the tool you spread masa with. Meet the tamale guide board
Start Here
Your first batch starts here
Prepare a manageable first batch with a ready workspace and the right equipment.
Masa & Ingredients
Start with the right masa
Choose masa, prepare flexible corn husks and test a small batch before scaling up.
Fillings
Filling consistency
Prepare a filling that holds together, use a modest portion and keep perishables safely chilled.
Sauces
Sauces to spoon on top
Three complete sauce recipes — red chile, green tomatillo, and creamy roasted poblano — to warm and spoon over cooked tamales.
Sides
Sides for the tamale table
Spanish rice, refried pinto beans, and charro beans to serve alongside homemade tamales.
Desserts
Desserts for the tamale table
Homemade sopapillas with honey and classic caramel flan to finish your tamale meal.
Drinks
Drinks for the tamale table
Three tequila classics to pour alongside your tamales — a Bloody María, a Classic Margarita, and a Grapefruit Paloma.
Folding & Steaming
Spread. Fill. Fold.
Assemble corn-husk tamales, arrange them above the water and check a rested sample.
Troubleshooting
Make one adjustment at a time
Check spreading, leaking, cracked husks, uneven steaming and dense masa one adjustment at a time.
Storage
Save the next batch safely
Cool tamales promptly, refrigerate safely and reheat leftovers to 165°F in the center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Tamale Board help with a consistent batch?
The tamale guide board helps with more even masa distribution and consistent thickness on a corn husk, giving you a repeatable starting point — whether you are new to learning how to make tamales or an experienced maker after a more consistent batch.
Does an even masa layer help with steaming?
A more even masa layer can support more even steaming and a consistent texture. Dough preparation, filling portions, and steam circulation still matter—check a rested sample for doneness rather than relying on the tamale guide board alone.
Do I eat the corn husk?
Remove the wrapper before eating.
Can I prepare filling the day before?
Yes, with prompt cooling and refrigeration. Follow the storage guidance.
Are tamales automatically gluten-free?
Check the masa, broth, seasonings, sauces, and preparation environment before making that claim.