Tamales de chile relleno are a delicious Mexican dish that consists of spicy chili peppers wrapped in a corn masa dough and steamed to perfection. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to prepare these mouthwatering tamales.

To start off, you will need a few key ingredients, including chili peppers, masa harina (corn flour), vegetable shortening or lard, chicken broth, salt, and baking powder. The chili peppers used for this recipe are typically large poblano peppers, known for their mild heat and rich flavor.

The first step in preparing these tamales is to roast the chili peppers. This can be done by placing them directly on a gas stove burner or under the broiler in the oven.

The goal is to char the skin of the peppers, which will help in removing it later. Once the peppers are charred, they need to be placed in a plastic bag or covered bowl to steam for about 15 minutes. This will help loosen the skin, making it easier to peel off.

While the peppers are steaming, you can prepare the corn masa dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, vegetable shortening or lard, salt, baking powder, and enough chicken broth to make a soft and pliable dough. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined and set aside.

Once the peppers have steamed, carefully peel off their skin and make a lengthwise incision to remove the seeds and membranes.

Be sure to handle the peppers with caution, as they can still be hot. Once the peppers are cleaned, they can be stuffed with cheese or any other desired filling, such as shredded chicken or beef.

To assemble the tamales, take a spoonful of the corn masa dough and spread it onto a corn husk, leaving a border around the edges. Place the stuffed chili pepper in the center of the dough and wrap the corn husk tightly around it, folding the sides in and securing with a piece of kitchen twine.

The tamales are then ready to be steamed. Place them upright in a steamer pot, making sure they are tightly packed to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.

Steam the tamales for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the corn masa dough is cooked through and firm.

Once the tamales are cooked, allow them to cool slightly before unwrapping and serving. These tamales de chile relleno can be enjoyed as a main course or as a tasty snack. They are often served with salsa, Mexican crema, or guacamole.

In conclusion, tamales de chile relleno are a delectable Mexican dish that combines the spicy kick of chili peppers with the comforting texture of corn masa dough. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can easily make these flavorful tamales at home. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try to savor the authentic flavors of Mexico in every bite.