There’s something magical about the aroma of Instant Pot Pork Tamales wafting through your kitchen, like a warm hug from a long-lost friend. The combination of tender pork simmered to perfection, enveloped in a soft masa, is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Instant Pot chocolate lava cake Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be transported straight to a bustling Mexican market, where every tamale tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Now, picture this: you’re hosting a fiesta, and you’re the star of the show with your very own batch of homemade tamales. Friends gather around, eyes wide with anticipation as they unwrap these little parcels of joy. taco rice casserole Every bite bursts with flavor and brings smiles all around. Whether it’s for Taco Tuesday or your next family gathering, these Instant Pot Pork Tamales are sure to impress and create unforgettable memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Instant Pot Pork Tamales are simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy authentic flavors without hours in the kitchen.
- Experience a delightful blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Visually appealing with their vibrant colors and wrappings, they make for an eye-catching dish at any gathering.
- Versatile enough to customize with different fillings or salsas based on your mood or pantry staples.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Pork Tamales
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Shoulder: A well-marbled cut ensures juicy and flavorful filling; aim for about 2-3 pounds.
- Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade; it adds moisture and richness to the pork.
- Tortilla Masa: This is essential for creating that perfect tamale texture; look for masa harina specifically designed for tamales.
- Chicken Broth: Enhances flavor; use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, garlic powder—these add depth; feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Chili recipe.
- Husked Corn Husks: Soak them before using; they’re the wrapping that keeps all that delicious filling inside.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Pork Tamales
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by soaking your corn husks in warm water for about an hour while you prepare your filling. This ensures they’re pliable enough to wrap around those tasty tamales.
Step 2: Cook the Pork
Season the pork shoulder with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place it in your Instant Pot along with tomato sauce and chicken broth. Seal it up and cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes. Let it naturally release pressure for about 15 minutes before venting.
Step 3: Shred the Meat
Once cooked and cooled slightly, shred the pork using two forks. Mix in some of the cooking liquid until you have a moist filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Masa
In a mixing bowl, combine tortilla masa with baking powder and salt. Gradually add some chicken broth until you reach a spreadable consistency—think creamy peanut butter!
Step 5: Assemble Your Tamales
Take a soaked corn husk and spread about two tablespoons of masa onto one side. Add some shredded pork in the center before folding over the sides and then rolling it up tightly like a burrito. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe recipe.
Step 6: Steam Your Tamales
Place tamales upright in your Instant Pot steamer basket or on a trivet if you don’t have one. Add water into the pot (about one cup) and cook on high pressure for another 25 minutes followed by another natural release.
Transfer to plates and serve with salsa or guacamole for an amazing finishing touch!
And there you have it! Your very own batch of delectable Instant Pot Pork Tamales ready to steal the show at any gathering! Enjoy sharing them with family or savoring them solo—no judgment here!
You Must Know
- Making Instant Pot Pork Tamales is not just about the flavors; it’s about the joy of sharing!
- These tamales are a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
- Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a hit at any gathering!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Instant Pot Pork Tamales, start by marinating your pork for maximum flavor. While it’s cooking, prepare your masa dough and soak the corn husks. This sequence ensures everything is ready when your pork is tender and juicy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your tamales by adding ingredients like jalapeños for spice or cheese for creaminess. You can even swap out the pork for chicken or beans if you’re feeling adventurous. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tamales in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, simply steam them for about 15 minutes or pop them in the microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh masa for the best texture in your tamales—trust me, it makes a difference!
- Make sure your filling is well-seasoned; under-seasoned meat can lead to bland tamales.
- Lastly, don’t overfill the tamales; they need room to expand during cooking.
Making these Instant Pot Pork Tamales reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter, delicious aromas, and an endless supply of salsa. The compliments from friends always warm my heart, especially when they ask for seconds!
FAQs :
What are Instant Pot Pork Tamales?
Instant Pot Pork Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made with masa (corn dough) filled with seasoned pork. Cooking them in an Instant Pot significantly reduces the time needed to prepare these delicious treats while keeping the flavors intact. The tamales are wrapped in corn husks and steamed, resulting in a soft, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed with salsa or other toppings.
How do I make the masa for Instant Pot Pork Tamales?
To create the masa for your Instant Pot Pork Tamales, combine masa harina with baking powder and salt. Gradually mix in warm chicken broth or water until you achieve a smooth consistency. Instant Pot chicken and dumplings You can also add lard or vegetable shortening to enhance the flavor and texture of the dough. Properly mixing the ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect tamale texture.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Pork Tamales?
Yes, you can freeze Instant Pot Pork Tamales for later enjoyment. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the Instant Pot or steam them until warmed through.
What toppings go well with Instant Pot Pork Tamales?
Toppings that complement Instant Pot Pork Tamales include salsa verde, pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream. You can also garnish with chopped cilantro or diced onions for added flavor and freshness. These toppings enhance your tamale experience and allow you to customize each serving according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Pork Tamales :
In summary, Instant Pot Pork Tamales are a flavorful and convenient dish that brings authentic Mexican cuisine into your home kitchen. With a simple recipe that combines seasoned pork and fluffy masa, you can enjoy this traditional treat without spending hours preparing it. Mexican ranch chicken By following the steps outlined above, you’ll create delicious tamales that can be easily frozen and served with various toppings. Enjoy your culinary adventure with these delightful tamales!
Instant Pot Pork Tamales
Instant Pot Pork Tamales are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors at home. These tamales feature tender, seasoned pork enveloped in soft masa, making them the perfect dish for any occasion. With their vibrant flavors and comforting aroma, they are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 85 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 12 soaked corn husks
Instructions
- Soak corn husks in warm water for about an hour.
- Season the pork shoulder with spices and place it in the Instant Pot with tomato sauce and chicken broth. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then naturally release for 15 minutes.
- Shred the cooked pork and mix it with some cooking liquid for moisture.
- Combine masa harina with baking powder and salt, gradually adding chicken broth until creamy.
- Spread masa on soaked husks, add shredded pork, fold, and roll tightly.
- Steam tamales upright in the Instant Pot for 25 minutes with one cup of water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tamale (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - Customize your filling with jalapeños or cheese for added flavor. - For richness, consider adding lard to the masa dough. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.




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