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Food Lens · Prepared

Frozen tamales

Savory and corn-forward with a soft, dense masa dough surrounding a well-seasoned filling.

Lens analyzed

Frozen tamales are pre-made masa dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in a corn husk and frozen after steaming, meant to be reheated by steaming, boiling, or microwaving. They're a convenience version of a traditionally labor-intensive dish.

Where it comes from

Tamales have ancient roots in Mesoamerican cooking, traditionally made in large batches for gatherings and celebrations, and frozen versions developed as a way to make the dish available without the lengthy process of preparing and steaming them fresh.

Buying it

Check the filling type listed on the package, since tamales range from savory pork or chicken to sweet versions, and confirm whether the corn husk wrapper is meant to be removed before reheating.

Storing it

Keep frozen tamales in the freezer until ready to reheat; once thawed and cooked, refrigerate leftovers and use within a few days.

Keeps about 3 months in the freezer.

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