How do I get vegetarian tamales to come out fluffy?
I'm a vegetarian, so naturally I don't use lard when making the masa for tamales. I've experimented with butter, non-hydrogenated vegetable shortening, and solid coconut oil. I've tried beating the dough for a long time in my stand mixer, as I've read some suggestions that that is the key to make a fluffy dough. I've also tried both fresh masa and MaSeCa.
My tamales are ok, but I inadvertently had a bite of a lard-based tamale last year, and it was drastically fluffier and lighter than anything I've achieved. I don't know if the difference is the choice of fat, or if the restaurant that made them employs a better mixing technique. Help?
Best Answer
You can use Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening: its is on PETA's (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) shopping list of baking goods, but can work just as well for frying as lard.
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How do I make my tamales Fluffy?
If your masa isn't adequately hydrated, the tamales will come out sandy and dry; if you haven't beaten the dough enough, they'll be too dense. The most important thing to remember is that tamal masa must be very moist and light.Why are my tamales dense?
The key to moist, flavorful tamales is not being shy about adding fat. Lard is traditional in Mexico. If you do not want to use lard \u2014 try using shortening or softened butter for a vegetarian version.What is the secret to moist tamales?
The best substitute for lard is butter. Unless your recipe says otherwise, you'll want to use unsalted butter as a substitute in most recipes that call for the lard.More answers regarding how do I get vegetarian tamales to come out fluffy?
Answer 2
I have made tamales for over 50 years and I learned how to make them from my grandmother. I have changed the recipe and now use Crisco. Whether I make them with lard or Crisco, I ALWAYS add baking powder and salt to help make them fluffy (and so did my grandmother).
Answer 3
I've never made tamales, so take this with a full shaker of salt, but you could try adding a bit of chemical leavening (baking powder) to the dough. It makes everything else fluffy; it just might help your tamales!
Answer 4
I have made tamales for about 30 years and I too learned from my grandmother and my mother. But the secret to fluffier tamale dough is baking powder and salt.
Answer 5
Add baking powder and mix a few minutes longer to make it fluffier.
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