Dive into the heart of El Salvador's culinary heritage with our Tamal de Elote, a cherished dish made from tender corn masa infused with a blend of aromatic spices and filled with savory goodness. Each tamal is a culinary masterpiece, lovingly crafted to perfection, showcasing the rich flavors and textures that define Salvadoran cuisine. Delight in the creamy sweetness of fresh corn enveloped in a delicate corn husk wrapper, delivering a taste of tradition with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying snack or a hearty meal, our Tamal de Elote promises an authentic culinary experience that transports you to the vibrant streets of El Salvador.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of fresh corn kernels (from about 6-8 ears of corn)
• 1 cup of cornmeal
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of butter, melted
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Corn husks, soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1- Prepare the corn husks: Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes, until they become soft and pliable. This will make them easier to work with when assembling the tamales.

2- Prepare the corn mixture: In a blender or food processor, blend 2 cups of the fresh corn kernels until smooth. Then, add the remaining 2 cups of corn kernels and pulse a few times to create a chunky texture.

3- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended corn, cornmeal, sugar, melted butter, milk, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.

4- Assemble the tamales: Take a softened corn husk and spread about 1/4 cup of the corn mixture onto the center of the husk. Fold one side of the husk over the filling, then fold the other side to enclose it. Fold up the bottom of the husk to seal the tamale. Repeat with the remaining corn mixture and husks.

5- Steam the tamales: Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer basket, making sure they are tightly packed to prevent them from unraveling during cooking. Steam the tamales over simmering water for about 45-60 minutes, or until the masa is set and cooked through.

6- Serve: Allow the tamales to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Optionally, you can serve them with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or drizzle them with condensed milk for added sweetness.

Enjoy your delicious El Salvador Tamal de Elote as a delightful dessert or snack!

Nutritional Values:

Fresh corn kernels (1 cup, about 155g):

• Calories: 124
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g
• Vitamin C: 9% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 14% of the DV
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 5% of the DV
• Magnesium: 9% of the DV
• B Potassium: 10% of the DV

benefits: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, fresh corn kernels support digestion, immune function, and overall health.

Cornmeal (1 cup, about 138g):

• Calories: 440
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 4g
• Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 87% of the DV
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 45% of the DV
• Iron: 23% of the DV
• Magnesium: 30% of the DV

benefits : Cornmeal provides complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin A and B vitamins), and minerals (like iron and magnesium), promoting sustained energy and digestive health.

Sugar (1 cup, about 200g):

• Calories: 774
• Carbohydrates: 200g
• No significant fiber, protein, or fat content
• Provides quick energy but lacks significant nutritional value other than calories

benefits: While primarily a source of calories and carbohydrates, sugar provides quick energy. However, moderation is essential to avoid health issues such as obesity and tooth decay.

Butter (1 cup, about 227g):

• Calories: 1628
• Total Fat: 184g
• Saturated Fat: 117g
• Cholesterol: 488mg
• No significant carbohydrates or protein content
• Contains vitamins A, D, E, and K in varying amounts

benefits: Butter contains essential fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin K2. It provides energy and supports various bodily functions but should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat content.

Milk (1 cup, about 244g, whole milk):

• Calories: 149
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 8g
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 24mg
• Calcium: 30% of the DV
• Vitamin D: 24% of the DV
• Vitamin B12: 18% of the DV

benefits: Milk is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D, essential for bone health, muscle function, and overall growth and development.

Salt (1 teaspoon, about 6g):

• Calories: 0
• Sodium: 2300mg (varies based on type and quantity used)

benefits: Salt is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. However, excessive intake should be avoided to prevent health issues like high blood pressure.

Baking powder (1 teaspoon, about 4g):

• Calories: 5
• Sodium: 488mg
• Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits: Baking powder serves as a leavening agent, helping baked goods rise and achieve a light and fluffy texture.

Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon, about 13g):

• Calories: 37
• No significant fat, carbohydrate, or protein content
• Typically used in small amounts for flavoring

benefits: Vanilla extract adds flavor to dishes and desserts and may contain small amounts of antioxidants, enhancing taste without significant nutritional value.