How To Reheat Tamales 8 Ways

Tamales can be reheated using various methods, each offering a unique advantage depending on the equipment available and the time at hand. The goal is to reheat the tamales while preserving their moisture and texture and ensuring they are evenly heated. 

Here are 8 ways to reheat tamales for optimal results.

Steaming is a traditional and an effective way to reheat tamales. This method preserves their moisture and prevents them from drying out. It is the preferred method by many because it closely mimics the original cooking process. 

Instructions 

1. Prepare the steamer by filling the bottom of the steamer with water. Ensure that the water level is below the steamer basket to avoid tamales from directly touching the water.
2. Place the tamales in the steamer basket making sure there is space around them. If you are reheating multiple tamales, you can place them upright in the steaming basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
3. Cover the steamer with the lid and steam the tamales for about 20-30 minutes, depending on their size and how cold they are.
4. Occasionally, check the steamer to ensure there is enough water in it. 
5. Before serving, you can check if your tamales are heated thoroughly by checking its internal temperature which should reach around 165°F or 74°C. 
6. Let the tamales rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. 

Pros

• This method preserves the moisture of the tamales 
• Ensures even heating without altering the texture 

Cons 

• Requires a steamer which many might not have access to 
• Takes longer to heat the tamales compared to other methods

The microwave is a convenient option for when you are short on time and need to reheat them quickly. It may heat the tamales in a short time but may result in the same texture as steaming. 

Instructions 

1. Place the tamales on a microwave safe plate. If your tamales are wrapped in husks, you can slightly moisten the husks with water to prevent it from drying out.
2. Cover the plate with a microwave safe cover or a damp paper towel to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can also wrap the tamales in a damp paper towel before placing them in the microwave so that the tamales do not dry out.
3. Microwave on medium-high for 2-3 minutes and add additional 30-seconds intervals as needed to heat the tamales through.
4. Keep in mind that microwaving frozen tamales or multiple tamales at once will require additional few minutes to the heating time. 
5. Check the internal temperature of the tamales (165°F or 74°C) to ensure proper heating.
6. Let the tamales rest for a minute before serving. 

Pros

• Fastest and most convenient 
• Requires minimal equipment and effort 

Cons

• Microwaving tamales can result in uneven heating 
• Constant monitoring is required as microwaved tamales can become dry 

Reheating tamales in an airfryer gives a slight crispy exterior, making it an interesting alternative for people who enjoy the contrast between a tender flavorful filling and a crunchy outer layer. 

Instructions 

1. Preheat the airfryer and set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). 
2. Remove the tamales from their packaging keeeeping their husks intact. Leaving the husk on keeps them from drying out and adds to their authentic flavor. 
3. Place the tamales in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket or else the tamales will not heat up evenly. 
4. Cook for 5-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through if necessary.
5. Cooking frozen tamales will require a longer, anywhere between 12-15 minutes. Remeber to flip the tamales halfway through.
6. Check to ensure the tamales are evenly heated with an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C. 
7. Once cookeed, carefully remove the tamales from the air fryer and let them sit for a couple of minutes before serving. 

Pros 

• Airfrying tamales gives it a crispy exterior on the outside 
• It is relatively a quick and efficient method to reheat tamales 

Cons 

• It may require multiple batches  if you are reheating a large quantity 
• The texture of tamales may slightly differ from traditional reheating methods

Reheating tamales on the stovetop is another viable method, particularly if you want to have a slight sear on the tamales. A common method to reheat the tamales, it works best if you use thawed tamales. 

Instructions

1. Place your skillet or a pan on medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to give your tamales a slight crispy exterior while preventing it from sticking to the pan.
2. When your oil heats up, remove the husks from the tamales and place them in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid to help them reheat them faster and more evenly.
3. Cook for 5-10 minutes, occasionally turning the tamales every 2-3 minutes, until the exterior is browned and crispy and the internal temperature reaches around 165°F or 74°C. 
4. Let it sit for a couple of minutes and serve. 

Pros

• Reheating the tamales adds a slight crips to the outside 
• It works best for smaller quantities 

Cons

• It may not be suitable for reheating larger batches 
• Requires constant attention to prevent the risk of burning 

The oven is  ideal for reheating larger quantities of tamales evenly. A convenient method preferred by many but it may take a bit longer compared to other methods. 

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and set it to 350°F (175°C).
2. While your oven is heating, wrap your tamales individually in aluminum foil creating a seal. Do not remove the exterior husk or wrapper. This step will help retain moisture and keep the tamales tasting fresh.  
3. Arrange the tamales in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, turning the tamales halfway through for even cooking.
4. Check the tamales to ensure they are heated through and have a rich golden-brown color to them.
5. Bake them for longer if needed and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. 

Pros

• It is one of the best methods to reheat large quantities of tamales
• The added layer of the foil maintains moisture 

Cons

• The oven method takes longer compared to other methods 
• Preheating the oven adds extra time to overall reheating 

An instant pot can be used to reheat tamales quickly using its steaming function. This method of heating offers convenience while retaining its moisture and tender texture. 

Instructions

1. Add a cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot and place the steaming rack inside. Make sure that the water level is below the rack.
2. Place your tamales on the rack in an upright position to ensure even cooking.
3. Set the Instant Pot to ‘steam’ function and steam for about 10 minutes. If you are reheating frozen tamales, it may require 15 minutes or more to evenly reheat.
4. Tamales can become soft or mushy if left in the Instant pot for too long and risk overcooking if not monitored closely. 
5. Let it rest for a couple of minutes and serve. 

Pros

• This method is fast and efficient 
• The tamales come out moist and tender 

Cons

• It requires an Instant Pot 
• Limited capacity for large batches 

A crockpot can be used to reheat tamales which is ideal for keeping them warm over an extended period. It may not be the fastest method for reheating tamales. 

Instructions 

1. Set the temperature of your crockpot to medium heat.
2. Place the tamales upright in the crockpot with husks intact. For better results, do not pack the tamales tightly and avoid overcrowding.
3. Sprinkle some water over the tamales before covering the pot and let it heat for at least an hour up to 3-6 hours. 
4. Tamales are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C. Tamales are also done cooking when the masa and husks separate easily. If the masa sticks to the husk, it's not yet ready. 
5. Let the tamales rest in the crockpot for 5-10 minutes before serving. 

Pros

• It works best for keeping tamales warm for serving 
• It requires minimal effort 

Cons

• It takes a longer time to reheat 
• Not ideal for a quick meal 

Reheating tamales in a deep fryer can be an effective way to achieve the crispiest exterior. This method works best if you want crispy tamales and do not mind the extra calories. 

Instructions

1. Defrost the tamales in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to ensure they are no longer frozen and fully thawed. Frozen tamales contain ice crystals, which when placed in hot oil, turns into steam causing the oil to bubble and pop.
2. Set the deep fryer to medium heat and add any neutral oil of your choice to the pot. You can use 1 to 1½ inches of oil or fill the pot no more than halfway full and let it preheat. Cold oil can result in tamales having a soggy texture.
3. Remove the husk and pat down the tamale with a paper towel removing any excess moisture.
4. Using metal tongs, carefully lower the tamales into the deep fryer.
5. Cook the tamales for 2-3 minutes until golden brown with a nice crispy exterior or until the internal temperature reaches around 165°F or 74°C. Do not overcrowd the fryer for even cooking. 
6. Remove the tamales from the oil with metal tongs and place them over a paper towel on a plate to remove any excess oil.
7. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, allowing them to cool before serving them. 

Pros

• It creates a crispy golden-brown exterior 
• Quick method compared to others 

Cons

• It adds calories to tamales because of the oil absorbed during reheating 
• Tamales can become overly greasy if the process is not managed properly which can affect the texture and flavor negatively

Steaming is the traditional method of cooking tamales and a preferred choice for authenticity and quality. We would recommend steaming the tamales to reheat them if you are aiming for the best results in overall texture and flavor.

Steaming maintains the moisture and prevents them from drying out which is crucial for keeping the tamales tender and flavorful. It ensures that the tamales heat evenly throughout, mimicking the original cooking process, while maintaining its quality and texture.

Steaming tamales requires anywhere between 10-30 minutes for the internal temperature to reach around 165°F or 74°C, which is longer compared to other methods. Other methods like microwaving or air frying can dry out the tamales and alter their texture. 

However, choose the best method for you based on the available equipment you have at hand, keeping time constraints and desired texture in mind.

Tamales can be stored and enjoyed over a period of time when properly handled. Their longevity depends on whether they are stored in the refrigerator or frozen. 

Refrigerated Tamales 

When storing tamales in the refrigerator, tamales can last for about 4-7 days. To maximize their shelf life, you can use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to tightly wrap the tamales. 

In addition, you can store them in an airtight container preventing moisture loss and contamination. 

Frozen Tamales 

Tamales can be stored in the freezer to extend their shelf-life significantly. Properly frozen tamales can last for 2-6 months. 

Additional Storage Tips 

When storing tamales, ensure that they have completely cooled to room temperature before freezing. This is to maintain its quality and prevent condensation as heat causes moisture inside the tamales to evaporate. This excess moisture can lead to freezer burn which degrades the quality and affects the taste. 

To freeze, wrap each tamale individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Label the container with the date of freezing. 

Proper storage of tamales, whether refrigerated or frozen, ensures they remain safe and delicious for extended periods. However, before consuming, it is crucial that you check for signs of spoilage such as smell, mold or an unusual texture. Discard the tamales if they show any of these signs. 

Now that your tamales are reheated, you can serve it with toppings of your choice like salsa, sour cream or lime juice. You can also serve tamales with a variety of popular sides discussed below. 

Guacamole - Tamales pair well with this rich flavorful avocado based dip with fresh, vibrant ingredients. The creaminess of guacamole compliments the savory flavors and hearty texture of the tamales.

Mexican Rice - Also known as Spanish rice, the tangy and savory flavor of the rice complements the rich savory fillings of the tamales making the meal more hearty and filling.

Cilantro Lime Rice - The bright zesty flavor of cilantro lime rice adds a refreshing contrast to the tamales and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Charro Beans - This traditional Mexican dish has a hearty, flavorful broth and a rich savory taste that provides a satisfying addition to tamales. Made with pinto beans simmered with various aromatics like onion, garlic, tomatoes, bacon and spices, adds a smoky flavor enhancing the overall experience.