Ingredients
4 ounces dried corn husks
6 large dried New Mexico chiles, stems removed, seeded, and torn into 4 pieces
2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
12 ounces lean boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 teaspoon salt
Classic Tamale Batter
Roasted-Tomatillo and Chipotle Salsa
Preparation
Reconstitute the corn husks.
In the jar of a blender, combine chiles, garlic, pepper, and cumin. Add 1 1/2 cups water, and blend until a smooth puree forms.
Strain mixture into a medium saucepan. Add the pork, 1 3/4 cups water, and salt. Place over medium heat; cook, stirring frequently, until liquid has reduced to consistency of a thick sauce and meat is very tender, 50 to 60 minutes. Using a fork, break up the meat.
Place the classic tamale batter in a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons sauce; combine.
Assemble twelve tamales with the batter and the pork filling, using large husks for wrappers and ties, and reserving smaller ones to line basket and cover the tamales.
Prepare the steamer, and steam the tamales. Let stand until batter has firmed. Serve tamales with the salsa.
