Because of their rich and satisfying flavor, tamales are considered by many to be comfort food. They freeze well as long as they are properly stored. So go ahead and make a big batch of tamales. Keep reading to find out how to cook frozen tamales, so you can enjoy them whenever you want to!
Tamales are a traditional and popular Mexican dish of seasoned meat, wrapped in a soft cornmeal dough that’s steamed or baked in corn husks or banana leaves.
Popular in Latin America and some parts of the Caribbean, variations of tamales have been enjoyed for hundreds of years.
Table of Contents
How to Cook Frozen Tamales
Method 1: Steaming Frozen Uncooked Tamales
Steaming is one of the best ways to cook frozen uncooked 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 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.
Method 2: Cooking Frozen Tamales on the Stovetop without a Steamer
If you don’t have a steamer, there are many ways to cook frozen tamales. They can be easily reheated in a frying pan. You’d have to remove the corn husks and heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and add the tamales. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and steaming hot. In a slow cooker, set it to high. Stand the tamales up with the open end facing upwards. Sprinkle with water, cover and cook for 1 hour, rearranging the tamales halfway through.
Method 3: Using an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
- Place a trivet in the bottom and the steamer basket on top.
- Add 2 cups of water to the pot, ensuring the water does not touch the tamales.
- Place the tamales with the husks on, pointing up, around the edges of the steamer.
- Close the lid, set to Manual setting, and set the timer for 15 minutes. When the timer goes off, set it to natural release.
- Remove the tamales and let them cool a bit before eating!
Method 4: Boiling Frozen Tamales
The key to successfully reheating frozen tamales is to keep them away from direct contact with water, which would cause the cornmeal to turn to mush. Instead of boiling tamales in water, it’s best to steam them over boiling water, using a steamer insert or a double boiler.
Method 5: Cooking Frozen Tamales in the Microwave
- Place the tamales on a plate and cover them with a damp paper towel, or place them in a glass bowl and sprinkle with water.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Heat the tamales at 50% powder for about 3 minutes.
- Turn them over and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes at full power until fully cooked. Allow to cool a bit before eating.
How Do You Reheat Frozen Cooked Leftover Tamales?
Using a steamer, cook the leftover frozen tamales for about 20-40 minutes. You can also use an insert above a pot filled with boiling water. Cook the tamales for about 40 minutes. Follow the instructions above to use an Instant Pot, a slow cooker, or a skillet to reheat your tamales.
How to Freeze Tamales Properly?
After cooking your tamales, cool them to room temperature in their corn husks. The best way to do this is to place the tamales on wire cooling racks. Once cool, place the tamales in resealable freezer bags, removing as much air as possible, or in a freezer-safe airtight container. Tamales can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
How to Reheat Tamales in the Oven?
Preheat the oven to 350℉. Tightly wrap each tamale in foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning at the halfway mark. Check to ensure the tamales are heated throughout and enjoy.
Can You Steam Frozen Tamales?
Yes, steaming is one of the best ways to cook frozen tamales and reheat them. All you need is a steamer insert set above boiling water. Cooked tamales will take 25-40 minutes, and uncooked tamales will take 45-60 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on the water to ensure it doesn’t run out.
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How to Cook Frozen Tamales (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Ingredients
- 4 frozen uncooked tamales
- water
Instructions
- 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.
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