This basic tamale dough recipe will give you soft and fluffy tamales.

Make the masa buy handits a labor of loveor with an electric mixer in half the amount of time.

Many tias, mamas, and abuelitasdebate around the kitchen tablewho has the best tamale recipe?

Bowl of Masa (Tamales Dough) Next to a Plate with a Corn Husk Smeared with Masa Using the Back of the Spoon and a Plate with More Corn Husks

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

They measured the ingredients al tanteo, meaning “a calculated guess in Spanish.

This masa recipe yields a basic tamale doughone that I meticulously wrote down as I watched them.

This is my go-to masa recipe for both savory and sweet tamales.

Masa (Tamales Dough) Ingredients (Bowl of Lard, Bowl of Masa Harina, Bowl of Salt, Bowl of Baking Powder, and Pitcher of Chicken Stock All Sitting on Corn Husks)

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

Some brands likeMasecaandMasabrosahave a variety of options to choose from.

Their regular masa harinas meant for tortillas will be smoother.

Both are delicious, and its a matter of personal preference.

Masa (Tamales Dough) Hand Mixed in a Bowl

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

Both brands can be found at your local Latin supermarket and most big box grocery stores.

You will likely get a better deal buying them at a brick-and-mortar than online.

Bobs Red MillandKing Arthuralso have great tasting masa harinas.

Bowl of Masa (Tamales Dough) Next to a Plate with a Corn Husk Smeared with Masa Using the Back of the Spoon and a Plate with More Corn Husks

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

I like to feel the texture of the masa in my hands.

For me, its nostalgic because this is how I grew up making tamales.

But you to you!

Bowl of Mixed Lard for Masa Recipe

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

you’re able to use an electric mixer and cut the prep time in half.

My mom will always notice tamales pintos, unevenly cooked masa, and we dont want that!

Here is how to modify the recipe for vegan or vegetarian tamales.

Masa Harina Added to Bowl of Mixed Lard for Tamales Dough Recipe

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

If its too hot, the lard in the dough will melt and separate.

Instead of chicken stock, you might use beef or vegetable stock.

For sweet tamales, use water.

Salt Added to a Bowl of Masa (Tamales Dough) Ingredients

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

The lard will change from yellowish to white.

The mixture will be crumbly, resembling wet sand.

Drop a quarter-sized ball of masa in a glass filled with cold water.

Baking Powder Added to Bowl of Masa (Tamales Dough) Ingredients

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

If the masa floats, it is ready.

Continue kneading and testing until the ball floats to the top of the glass.

The masa will be wet, spreadable, and sticky.

Dry Masa (Tamales Dough) Ingredients Hand Mixed into Lard, Creating a Wet Sand Consistency

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

Now youre ready to make tamales!

Any longer than 48 hours, it will sour.

When assembling, keep the masa covered with a clean kitchen towel to avoid it from drying out.

Broth Poured into Bowl of Tamales Dough

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

Bowl of Masa (Tamales Dough)

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez

Masa Dough Ball Tested in Water Next to a Bowl of More Masa

Simply Recipes / Ericka Sanchez