Tamales are a beloved dish with a rich cultural history, known for their delicious flavor and versatility. One of the best things about tamales is that they freeze exceptionally well, making them a perfect addition to any meal prep routine. Whether you’re a busy professional or just love having ready-to-eat meals on hand, learning how to properly freeze and reheat can save you time and ensure you always have a delicious meal ready to go.
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Freezing Tamales for Long-Term Storage
To preserve your tamales’ quality and flavor, follow these steps:
- Wrap Individually: Wrap each tamale in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn and allow for individual defrosting.
- Group in Freezer Bags: Place wrapped tamales in a resealable freezer bag. Label with the date and squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
- Store in Freezer: Lay the bag flat in the freezer. Once frozen, you can stack the bags. Properly stored, tamales can last up to six months to eight months without significant quality loss.
Reheating Frozen Tamales
Steaming
Steaming is one of the best ways to reheat tamales, as it helps retain their moisture and texture.
- Preparation: Set up a steamer by adding water to the bottom pot and bringing it to a simmer.
- Steaming: Place the frozen tamales in the steamer basket, making sure they’re not touching the water. Cover with a lid.
- Time: Steam for 20-30 minutes, or until they’re heated through. For larger tamales or a larger batch, you may need to add a few extra minutes.
Microwaving
Microwaving is the quickest method, ideal for when you need a tamale fix in a hurry.
- Preparation: Leave the tamale wrapped in a damp paper towel. This helps maintain moisture.
- Microwaving: Place the wrapped tamale on a microwave-safe plate.
- Time: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check to make sure it’s heated thoroughly; if not, continue in 30-second increments.
Heat in the Oven
Using an oven can give a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist.
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tamales in aluminum foil.
- Heating: Place the wrapped tamales on a baking sheet.
- Time: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can unwrap them for the last 5 minutes if you prefer a crispier texture.
Reheat on the Stovetop
Reheating tamales in a skillet can add a bit of char and crispiness to the exterior.
- Preparation: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if desired.
- Heating: Place the tamales in the skillet, cover with a lid.
- Time: Heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until thoroughly heated.
Don’t Forget the Sides
Tamales are a quick and savory meal to have for any occasion. Read a few more ways you can enjoy tamales!
Get Your Tamales from Delia’s
For the best tamale experience, start with high-quality tamales from Delia’s. Their authentic, handcrafted tamales are perfect for freezing and reheating, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand. By following our storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the same great taste even after months in the freezer. Delia’s combine tradition and flavor, making meal prep a breeze. Order your tamales from Delia’s Tamales today.
