how long do i cook tamales in the instant pot

Cooking tamales in the instant pot is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this traditional Mexican dish. The instant pot is a versatile kitchen tool that can save you a lot of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up a quick and delicious meal. But how long do you need to cook tamales in the instant pot? In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook tamales perfectly in the instant pot, along with valuable tips and tricks to help you get the best results.

Instant Pot Tamale Recipes

Before we dive into the timing and preparation of instant pot tamales, let's have a quick look at some of the delicious recipes you can try. Instant pot tamale recipes are numerous, ranging from traditional pork tamales to chicken and beef tamales, vegetarian tamales, sweet potato tamales, and spicy corn tamales. The versatility of the instant pot makes it easy to experiment with different fillings and textures to find your favorite tamale recipe.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tamales in the Instant Pot

Making tamales in the instant pot is a two-step process, involving steaming the tamales and then removing them once they are cooked. Here is a step-by-step guide to making tamales in the instant pot:

1. Soak the corn husks overnight in water to soften them before use.
2. Prepare the masa dough by mixing masa harina with warm water and salt. Add shortening to the dough and beat until fluffy.
3. Prepare your choice of filling, such as beef or chicken, and add the filling to the masa.
4. Scoop a spoonful of masa mixture onto the center of the corn husk and spread it evenly, leaving the edges clear.
5. Roll the corn husk tightly to enclose the tamale.
6. Arrange the tamales on the steamer basket inside the instant pot.
7. Fill the instant pot with water up to the minimum level.
8. Close the pressure cooker lid and set the steam release valve to the sealing position.
9. Set the instant pot to steam on high pressure for approximately 35 minutes.
10. Once the cooking time is complete, let the instant pot release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure with the quick release valve.
11. Use tongs to carefully remove the hot tamales from the instant pot.

Preparing the Masa for Instant Pot Tamales

The masa is the dough used to make the tamale shells. The masa supplies key nutrients like fiber, protein and vitamins. Preparing the masa for instant pot tamales is easy as long as you have the right tools and ingredients. The main ingredient for masa dough is masa harina, which is a special type of corn flour that can be found in most grocery stores. Masa dough also requires water, salt, and shortening. The shortening gives the masa a fluffy texture, which is crucial for absorbing the flavors of the filling.

Choosing the Right Filling for Your Instant Pot Tamales

Choosing the right filling for your instant pot tamales is crucial to creating a delicious meal. The filling can be anything you like but should have a flavor that complements the masa dough. Traditional fillings include pork, chicken, and beef, but you can also use cheese, beans, or vegetables for a vegetarian option. Make sure the filling is cooked before adding it to the masa dough, so it can be easily mixed and will bind to the masa, making it easier to wrap the tamales.

How to Properly Wrap Tamales for Cooking in the Instant Pot

The traditional way to wrap tamales is to spread the masa dough on a softened corn husk, add the filling, and then roll the husk tightly around the filling. However, there is an art to wrapping tamales, and it takes practice to get it right. It is important to keep the masa layer thin, so there will be enough room for the filling. The filling should be aligned lengthwise along the center line of the husk, and you should leave enough room at the top to enable you to fold the husk over. If you have never wrapped tamales before, watch some online videos or get someone to teach you how to do it.

Tips and Tricks for Cooking Perfect Tamales in the Instant Pot

Here are some tips and tricks to enhance the flavor of your instant pot tamales:

• Add some spices or seasoning to the masa dough to give the tamales a unique flavor.
• Use a mix of different meats or vegetables to add more texture and flavor to the filling.
• Steaming for about 35 minutes works well for most tamales, but if you are at high altitude, adjust the cooking time and pressure settings accordingly.
• Letting the instant pot release the pressure naturally helps the tamales absorb more flavor and keep them moist.

Adjusting Cooking Time and Pressure Settings for Altitude

Adjusting the cooking time and pressure settings for altitude is important because the reduced air pressure affects the boiling point of water. At high altitudes, water boils at lower temperatures, which means that the food will take longer to cook, and you may need to add more water. The general rule of thumb is to increase the cooking time by 5 to 10 minutes for every 1,000 feet of elevation above sea level.

How to Safely Release Pressure from the Instant Pot After Cooking Tamales

Releasing pressure from the instant pot after cooking tamales can be dangerous if not done properly. Here's how to release pressure from the instant pot safely:

1. Turn the pressure release valve to the venting position.
2. Wait for the steam to escape from the valve and the pressure indicator to drop to zero.
3. Open the instant pot lid carefully, and use oven mitts to avoid getting burned by steam.

Instant Pot Tamale Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

If your instant pot tamales don't turn out perfectly, don't worry! Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Tamales come out too dry: Add more liquid to the masa or try steaming them for less time.
• Tamales are too wet: Make sure you wrap the tamales tightly and use a good seal on the instant pot lid. Also, make sure to drain any excess liquid before serving.
• Tamales are not fully cooked: Increase the cooking time or ensure that you have enough water in the instant pot.
• Tamales stick to the corn husks: Make sure to soak the corn husks long enough before use. You can also add a layer of vegetable oil to the husks before spreading the masa to prevent sticking.

Serving and Garnishing Your Instant Pot Tamales

Now that your instant pot tamales are ready, it's time to serve and garnish them. You can serve them with a side of beans and rice, guacamole, or your favorite salsa. Garnish with some cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped tomatoes for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Don't be afraid to experiment with different garnishes and toppings to create a unique and delicious tamale dish.

Instant Pot Tamale Variations: Sweet, Savory, Vegetarian, and More

Instant pot tamale variations are endless. You can try making sweet tamales by adding sugar and cinnamon to the masa dough or savory vegetable tamales by using a mix of peppers, corn, and onions as the filling. Vegetarian options are also a great choice. Replace meat with beans or potatoes for a hearty filling that vegetarians will love.

Comparison of Instant Pot vs Traditional Tamale Cooking Methods

Although traditional tamale cooking methods involve boiling or steaming, cooking tamales in the instant pot has several advantages. The instant pot is much faster than traditional methods, taking only about 35 minutes to cook a batch of tamales. Instant pot tamales also come out more moist and flavorful, thanks to the instant pot's sealed environment, which traps in moisture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Using an Instant Pot to Cook Tamales

Cooking tamales in the instant pot has several health benefits. The instant pot locks in the nutrients and vitamins of the masa and filling, ensuring that your meal is packed with flavor and nutrients. Also, instant pot cooking is less likely to produce harmful byproducts like acrylamide, a cancer-causing substance produced when food is overcooked at high temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Tamales in the Instant Pot

Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking tamales in the instant pot:

1. Can you stack tamales in the instant pot? Yes, you can stack tamales in the instant pot, but make sure they are not too tightly packed.
2. Can you reheat tamales in the instant pot? Yes, you can reheat tamales in the instant pot by placing them in the steamer basket and adding a little water. Set the instant pot to steam at high pressure for about 5 minutes.
3. Can you freeze instant pot tamales? Yes, you can freeze instant pot tamales by wrapping them in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and sealing them in a freezer-safe container.

Now that you have learned everything you need to know about cooking tamales in the instant pot, it's time to explore the best tamale recipes and start cooking. Use this guide's cooking time and tips to adjust each recipe to your liking and create a unique and delicious tamale dish. Bon appetit!