How to Eat Tamales (7 Fun Ways)

Considered a staple in Mexican households, tamales have grown in popularity all over the world. They’re versatile, fun to eat, and delicious. In this post, you’ll learn how to prepare and how to eat tamales.

Known as both a homemade comfort food and a tasty treat available from road-side vendors and food trucks, there’s no denying the fantastic flavor of tamales.

What Are Tamales?

Hearty and delicious, tamales are a traditional dish originally from Mexico. A savory filling of meat, cheese, veggies, and chiles are stuffed into corn husks or plantain leaves, and then steamed to perfection.

They can be enjoyed with tomatillo salsa, a bowl of chili, or eaten on their own. And if you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be happy to know that there are also sweet tamales!

Are You Supposed to Eat the Corn Husk on a Tamale?

No, the corn husk or plantain leaves are just the wrapper, and should not be eaten. It’s supposed to is to help the tamale keep its shape.

How to Eat Tamales (7 Fun Ways)

1. Eating Tamales on Their Own

Delicious in their own right, go ahead and grab a tamale, ensuring it’s cool enough to eat, peel the wrapper back, and dive into its savory goodness!

2. Eating Tamales with Toppings Such as Salsa or Mole

If you want to try tamales with some tasty toppings, try a spicy tomato-based salsa or how about a smooth mole? If you’re not familiar with mole sauce, it’s made with chocolate, chile peppers, and spices, and tastes great on just about anything. Other options include corn or black beans for a bit of crunch, or mango habanero pepper sauce if you love spicy food.

3. Eating Sweet Tamales as a Dessert

Now that we’ve covered savory tamales, you might be surprised to learn that there are also sweet tamales that you can enjoy for dessert!

With ingredients like chocolate, raisins, and bananas, flavored with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, there’s something here to satisfy any sweet tooth. Top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for a decadent treat.

4. Pairing Tamales with Other Foods and Beverages

So, what can you drink with tamales? If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with a hot mug of atole, a traditional drink made by simmering ground corn with water and sweet flavorings like chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and fruit. An icy cold glass of beer or lemonade are good options too.

5. Eating Tamales with a Side of Arroz Con Leche

If you’re having a tamale for breakfast, try it with a side of Arroz con leche, also known as Mexican rice pudding. Made with long-grain white rice, milk, and cinnamon sticks, it’ll keep you full until lunchtime!

6. Smother Hearty Tamales with Chili

Try this one with your kids. Place a savory tamale at the bottom of a bowl and then smother it in rich homemade chili. Add some sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and sliced avocado, and you’ll have a treat everyone will love.

7. Make a Chicago-style “Mother-in-Law” Sandwich

If you love chili dogs, here’s a new way to enjoy them. Instead of a sausage or a weiner, stuff the bun with a savory tamale and smother it in chili! Top it with all of your favorites like mustard, onions, tomatoes, and hot peppers, and you’ll be full all day.

How to Reheat Leftover Tamales

If you manage to have some leftover tamales, reheating them in the oven is easy. Preheat the oven to 350℉ and tightly wrap each tamale in foil.

Place the tamales on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning at the halfway mark. Check to ensure that the tamales are fully heated and enjoy!

Tamale Fillings

• Most traditional meat tamales are filled with chicken, beef, or pork and are seasoned with a variety of spices.

• Sweet tamales are often made with dried fruits such as raisins, and are flavored with vanilla and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.
• Vegetarian tamales are stuffed with cheese, veggies, and spices.
• Vegan tamales are delicious and are often filled with grilled or roasted veggies or traditional Mexican rice.

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How to Eat Tamales (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Ingredients

• 4 frozen uncooked tamales
• water

Instructions

To Cook Tamales

• Fill the bottom of a steamer with water, up to the halfway point.
• Turn the heat to high and wait for the water to start boiling.
• Place the frozen tamales in the steamer insert, ensuring the water is not touching them.
• Steam for 45-60 minutes until done. Check to ensure the water doesn’t run out to avoid burning the tamales.

To Eat Tamales

• Let it cool down slightly, and then peel the wrapper back.
• You can eat them on their own, or pair with other desserts, chili, salsa, or other food.