How To Cook Tamales In Instant Pot

Tamales are a tasty and traditional dish that is loved by many. Making them from scratch can be quite time-consuming, but with the help of an Instant Pot, you can enjoy delicious, homemade tamales in a fraction of the time. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of cooking tamales using your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

2 cups masa flour
1 ½ cups warm water or broth
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Filling of your choice (such as shredded chicken, pork, or cheese)
Corn husks, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Salsa or hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the masa dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the masa flour, warm water or broth, baking powder, and salt. Mix until the dough is smooth and well combined.
Prepare the filling: Choose your desired filling and have it ready to spoon onto the masa dough.
Assemble the tamales: Take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of masa dough onto the wide end of the husk, leaving a border around the edges. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the dough. Roll the husk tightly and fold the bottom end to seal the tamale. Repeat this process until all the masa and filling are used.
Cook in the Instant Pot: Place a trivet or steamer basket in the Instant Pot and add water to the bottom of the pot. Arrange the tamales upright on the trivet or stacked in the steamer basket. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 20 minutes.
Release the pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release of any remaining pressure.
Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the tamales from the Instant Pot and let them cool for a few minutes. Unwrap the husks and serve with salsa or hot sauce, if desired.

With your Instant Pot, you can make a batch of delicious tamales in no time. The best part is that they taste just as good as the traditional ones, all while saving you valuable cooking time. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will satisfy your cravings for Mexican cuisine!

Do you have any favorite tamales fillings? Let us know in the comments below!

Want to share your experiences or ask questions about making tamales in an Instant Pot? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!

FAQ:

Can I cook tamales in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can absolutely cook tamales in an Instant Pot! In fact, the Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to make moist and flavorful tamales without much hassle.

How long does it take to cook tamales in an Instant Pot?

The cooking time for tamales in an Instant Pot can vary depending on the recipe and the size of the tamales. Generally, it takes around 20-30 minutes on high pressure to cook tamales thoroughly.

Do I need to use a steamer basket to cook tamales in an Instant Pot?

Using a steamer basket is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. It helps to elevate the tamales, allowing the steam to circulate evenly and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

How much water should I add to the Instant Pot when cooking tamales?

When cooking tamales in an Instant Pot, you usually need to add about 1 to 1.5 cups of water to the pot. This will create the necessary steam for pressure cooking the tamales.

Can I stack tamales in the Instant Pot?

It is possible to stack tamales in the Instant Pot, but it’s important not to overcrowd the pot. Make sure to layer them in a single layer or use a steamer rack if you want to cook multiple layers. This allows proper steam circulation and ensures even cooking.

How do I know if the tamales are done cooking?

To check for doneness, carefully insert a toothpick or a skewer into the center of a tamale. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the tamales are cooked through. If not, reseal the Instant Pot and cook for a few more minutes.

Can I make vegetarian or vegan tamales in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! The Instant Pot is a versatile cooking appliance that can accommodate both traditional and specialized tamales. Whether you prefer vegetarian or vegan fillings, you can create delicious tamales using the same cooking method. Simply adapt the filling ingredients to your dietary preferences.

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How To Cook Tamales In Instant Pot