Gluten-Free Traditional Mexican Tamales

Experience the timeless flavors of Mexico with these Gluten-Free Traditional Mexican Tamales, a delicious twist on a beloved classic! Perfect for those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe uses fluffy masa dough made from gluten-free masa harina, combined with savory shredded chicken (or pork) and your choice of tangy salsa verde or bold red chili sauce. Wrapped in softened corn husks and steamed to tender perfection, these tamales deliver authentic taste and satisfying texture in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or craving comfort food at home, these tamales are perfect for sharing and pair beautifully with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and your favorite sides. Simple, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free, they’re a must-try for tamale lovers of all kinds!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:60 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:150 mins

Servings: 15

Ingredients

• 20 pieces Dried corn husks
• 3 cups Gluten-free masa harina
• 2.5 cups Vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Vegetable shortening or lard
• 2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken (or pork for variation)
• 1.5 cups Salsa verde or red chili sauce
• 0.25 cup Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Soak the dried corn husks in a large bowl of warm water for about 30 minutes until soft and pliable. Drain and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free masa harina, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3

Slowly add the vegetable broth to the masa mixture while stirring with a spoon or your hands to create a soft dough.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whip the vegetable shortening or lard using an electric mixer until fluffy. Gradually mix the masa dough into the whipped shortening until fully incorporated. The mixture should be fluffy but hold its shape when spread.

Step 5

In another bowl, mix the shredded chicken (or pork) with the salsa verde or red chili sauce. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Step 6

To assemble the tamales, place a soaked corn husk flat on a clean surface. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of masa dough in the center, leaving about 1-2 inches of space at the sides and bottom.

Step 7

Add a tablespoon of the chicken filling on top of the masa, then fold the sides of the corn husk inward to enclose the filling. Fold the narrower bottom end of the husk up to close the tamale and tie it with a thin strip of husk if needed. Repeat with the remaining husks, masa, and filling.

Step 8

Place a steamer basket inside a large pot and add water just below the basket level. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer, open end facing upward. Cover the tamales with a damp towel and the pot lid.

Step 9

Steam the tamales over medium heat for 1.5 hours, checking periodically to ensure there is enough water in the pot to prevent drying out.

Step 10

To check for doneness, remove one tamale and let it cool for a minute. If the masa pulls away cleanly from the corn husk, the tamales are ready!

Step 11

Serve warm with extra salsa or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2286.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4599.7

Total Fat 276.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 62.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.8g
Cholesterol 405.6mg	0%
Sodium 6087.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 355.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.3g	0%
Total Sugars 23.1g
Protein 190.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 768.0mg	0%
Iron 19.3mg	0%
Potassium 3556.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 53.3%

Protein: 16.3%

Carbs: 30.4%