XLNT Tamales are easily prepared in the microwave for a quick meal but have you ever tried using the steaming method? When you're in the mood for a delicious tamale and you want the best texture and flavor, steaming is the way to go. It's also the ideal option for premade tamales, like the ones we offer at XLNT Foods. Steaming helps ensure that the food heats evenly without sacrificing its taste or consistency, as long as you do it properly. This is why a tamale steamer is a great investment for anyone who loves to prepare and eat this popular dish.

Steaming without the right tools and techniques can result in a huge mess. Your food could end up soggy or sticking to the surface of whichever appliances or dishes you've used. DIY steaming with makeshift supplies could end up ruining your meal. Purchasing a great tamale steamer can help you enjoy a variety of tasty, perfectly cooked foods for years to come.

There are dozens of steamers out there for every budget, interest, and taste so it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that stand above the rest and can be a great addition to your home kitchen.

Best Tamale Steamer Products on the Market Today

Which tamale steamer you choose will often come down to what matters most to you as a home cook. Some strive for authentic techniques while others prefer options that make busy life a little easier. Whatever your goals are for food prep, these tamale steamer options can make easy work of cooking a delicious and satisfying meal.

1. For the Most Traditional Method

Traditionally, tamales are steamed in a large metal pot fitted with a steamer basket made of the same material. The basket is designed to fit snugly within the stockpot so you don't have to worry about water splashes or escaping steam. Look for a four-piece stainless steel set (stockpot, large basket, small basket, and lid) that has a 12-quart capacity and you can steam perfect tamales every time, whether you're heating up just a few for yourself or a few more for friends and family. If space is an issue we recommend this 3QT Oster stainless steel steamer

2. For Large Batches

Tamales are the perfect way to feed a crowd but you'll need a much larger tamale steamer if you're making more than three or four servings. If entertaining is important to you, you may be wise to invest in a 32-quart tamale steamer to give you the capacity you need. This way, everyone can enjoy fresh, hot tamales at the same time and you won't be stuck cooking several batches over the stove.

3. For Easier Cleanup

An enamel-coated tamale steamer is a great option if you want something that's still efficient at steaming but is easier to clean than traditional stainless steel. If you want to spend less time at the sink when the meal is done, look for options that are still made with this durable material but are coated with enamel.

4. For More Modern Amenities

Electric steamers are very popular with many home cooks because they make it so easy to cook a variety of foods with precision every time. While it will have a much smaller capacity than stove-top options, an electric tamale steamer does offer some other perks, including multiple trays and glass or plastic compartments that make it easier to watch your food while it's cooking. Many include timers or automatic shut-off settings so you won't have to worry about overcooking your tamales.

5. For the Well-Stocked Kitchen

If you already have a great stockpot in your pantry or cabinet, you may not need to purchase a complete tamale steamer system. Instead, you can opt for a stainless steel steamer basket insert that's made to work with a variety of pots and saucepans. This can save you money, as these inserts tend to be a little cheaper than buying the entire set. Just make sure it fits securely and allows enough space at the bottom to keep any liquids away from your food.

6. For More Storage Space

If you have a smaller kitchen and you need to maximize your storage space, you can opt for a silicone tamale steamer basket insert instead. These work similarly to their stainless steel counterparts but are completely flexible, making them easy to store almost anywhere. They're also a great option for budget-conscious cooks. Because they don't provide a rigid structure, you'll need to take care and avoid overfilling the basket; this could cause it to sag down into the boiling water and ruin your favorite tamales.

7. For a Quick Microwave Fix

You don't need a stove or an extra kitchen appliance to enjoy perfectly steamed tamales. Microwavable steamer baskets are a great way to prepare a variety of steamed foods with ease. These usually include a small tray to hold the water, a second vented tray to hold your food, and a lid to seal in the steam. Follow the instructions carefully based on your microwave's specific wattage to ensure the best results.

Tips for Preparing the Perfect Tamale

When steaming your tamale, be sure to follow the instructions that were included with your tamale steamer. There are many details that can affect the outcome of your food, including:

•       The amount of water used

•       The temperature setting

•       The amount of food placed in the basket

•       The overall cooking time

However, there is no one-size-fits-all method when it comes to steaming tamales; timing and technique will vary by product and model. Sticking to the directions and a little trial and error will help you learn how to achieve your ideal temperature and texture. To steam XLNT Tamales on the stovetop place the wrapped tamales in a covered sieve or colander and set the colander over a pot of boiling water. Do not put the tamales directly in the water. If you thawed the tamales ahead of time, steam them for 25 minutes. If the tamales are frozen, steam them for 30 minutes.

Find the Perfect Tamale Steamer

While steaming is the traditional way to cook and reheat tamales, it isn't the only way to enjoy the authentic flavors of this traditional Mexican dish. You can also reheat your XLNT tamales in the oven or microwave with delicious results see our blog for prep directions.

At XLNT Foods, we want you to enjoy the best in Mexican cuisine without all the fuss. No matter how you choose to prepare our tamales, we're sure you'll savor every bite. To locate XLNT Tamales near you see our Store locator and if you haven’t heard we are now are shipping XLNT tamales and chili con carne nationwide! Please visit our XLNT Foods online store to order today!

Sources:

https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-reheat-tamales/

https://www.bustle.com/life/best-tamale-steamers

https://www.thespruceeats.com/best-food-steamers-to-buy-4138175

https://www.xlntfoods.com/cookbook-recipes/best-ways-to-prepare-and-reheat-tamales-from-xlnt