Masa Mix for Tamales

Who doesn't love a good tamale? Well here is a recipe for you. Now you will need to add whatever you want inside, but this is the basic masa mix for you to start with.

3 1/2 C masa harina
2 1/4 C. hot water
1-1 1/2 C chicken broth (or chile sauce for more flavor)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp salt
10oz pork lard or shortening

Combine hot water and masa.
In a separate bowl beat lard, salt, and baking powder until fluffy.
Add masa to lard in 3 portions.
Beat 1 C. broth (or chile sauce) in for 1 minute.
Keep adding broth until a soft muffin batter consistency.

Soak the husks a few hours before filling them with masa.
You will need to steam the tamales for about 2 hours, depending on how thick you made them and how full your pot is. If you have a fairly packed pot, it'll be less time than a mostly empty pot.

Filling ideas: shredded pork, beef, or chicken. sliced carrots, potatoes, onions, bell peppers, chiles. cheese. Add pineapple juice instead of broth for a dessert tamale. The possiblities are endless, and quite tasty.