The Ultimate Guide to the Shelf Life of Tamales

How long do tamales last? – The Ultimate Guide

Tamales are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a meal or a snack. Made from masa-based dough and filled with a variety of ingredients, tamales offer a unique and satisfying culinary experience. However, if you find yourself with a large batch of tamales, you may be wondering how long they can be stored and enjoyed. In this ultimate guide, we explore the shelf life of tamales and provide practical tips for storing and reheating them.

What is a tamale?

Tamales are a traditional corn-based dish that originated in Mesoamerica and have been enjoyed for thousands of years. The word “tamale” is an Anglicized form of the Spanish word “tamal”, which comes from the Nahuatl term “tamalli”. The dough of a tamale is made from masa, or corn dough, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, cheeses, chiles, fruits, and vegetables. The filled dough is then wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf and steamed until cooked.

Shelf life of tamales

The shelf life of tamales depends on how they are stored. Here is a breakdown of how long tamales can last in different storage conditions:

In the refrigerator

Tamales can be refrigerated for up to a week. The best way to keep them fresh is to wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.

In the freezer

If you have a large batch of tamales that you won’t be able to eat within a week, freezing them is a great option. Tamales will keep in the freezer for up to six months. To freeze tamales, allow them to cool to room temperature, then place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Be sure to leave some space between each tamale for proper airflow. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. Individually wrapping each tamale in plastic wrap before freezing can further protect their quality.

On the counter

Tamales should not be left on the counter for extended periods of time. Cooked food left at room temperature becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Tamales should not be left out for more than four hours. If you must keep them at room temperature for a short time, cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and prevent insects from getting to them.

Raw tamales on the counter

Because of their fresh ingredients, uncooked tamales should not be left on the counter for more than one hour. The fresh ingredients in uncooked tamales can spoil quickly if not stored properly.

Storing Tamales

Proper storage of tamales is critical to maintaining their quality and extending their shelf life. Here are some guidelines for storing tamales:

In the refrigerator

To store tamales in the refrigerator, follow these steps:

1. Allow the tamales to cool to room temperature.
2. Find an airtight container that will hold the tamales without bending or crushing them.
3. Place a layer of tamales on the bottom of the container.
4. Cover the tamales with a piece of plastic wrap, tucking the plastic into the sides of the container.
5. If there is more room in the container, add another layer of tamales and repeat the process.
6. When the container is full, place a final piece of plastic wrap on top and press down over the tamales.
7. Write the date and contents on a piece of masking tape and attach it to the top of the container.
8. Store the container in the refrigerator and consume the tamales within seven days.

In the freezer

To store tamales in the freezer, follow these steps

1. Allow the tamales to come to room temperature.
2. Place the tamales on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a space between each tamale.
3. Freeze tamales for 12-24 hours or until completely frozen.
4. Transfer frozen tamales to an airtight freezer bag or container. Individually wrapping each tamale in plastic wrap before placing in the bag or container can provide additional protection.
5. Write the date and contents on a piece of masking tape and attach it to the bag or container.
6. Return the bag or container to the freezer.
7. Thaw tamales in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating tamales

When it comes to reheating tamales, there are a few methods you can use to ensure they are thoroughly heated while maintaining their texture and flavor. Here are a few options:
In the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the tamales from the refrigerator or freezer.
3. If the tamales are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
4. Wrap each tamale individually in aluminum foil.
5. Place the wrapped tamales on a baking sheet.
6. Heat the tamales in the oven for about 20-30 minutes for refrigerated tamales or 40-50 minutes for frozen tamales.
7. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tamales. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safely heated.
8. Carefully unwrap and enjoy.

In the steamer

1. Fill a steamer with water, making sure the water level is below the steamer basket.
2. Place the tamales in the steamer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
3. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil.
4. Steam the tamales for about 15-20 minutes for refrigerated tamales or 30-40 minutes for frozen tamales.
5. Check tamales for doneness by unwrapping one and making sure the filling is heated through.
6. Once heated, carefully remove the tamales from the steamer and serve.

In the microwave

1. Take the tamales out of the refrigerator or freezer.
2. If the tamales are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
3. Place the tamales on a microwave-safe plate.
4. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
5. Microwave tamales on high for 2-3 minutes for refrigerated tamales or 4-5 minutes for frozen tamales.
6. Carefully remove the plate from the microwave and let the tamales rest for a few minutes before unwrapping and enjoying.

BOTTOM LINE

Tamales are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for several days if stored properly. By following proper storage guidelines and reheating methods, you can enjoy the flavors of tamales even after they have been prepared. Whether you choose to store them in the refrigerator or freezer, tamales can provide a convenient and satisfying meal or snack whenever you crave them. With this ultimate guide, you now have the knowledge to confidently enjoy tamales at their best. So go ahead and indulge in this traditional and flavorful culinary treat.

FAQS

How long do tamales keep in the refrigerator?

Tamales can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Can I freeze tamales?

Yes, tamales can be frozen. They can last up to six months in the freezer.

How should I store tamales in the refrigerator?

To store tamales in the refrigerator, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

How should I store tamales in the freezer?

To store tamales in the freezer, allow them to cool to room temperature, then individually wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight freezer bag or container.

How long can tamales stay on the counter?

Tamales should not be left on the counter for more than four hours.

How should I reheat tamales?

Tamales can be reheated in the oven, steamer, or microwave. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating.