Air Fryer Tamales: Warming Up A Delicious Treat

Tamales are a delicious Mexican dish consisting of stuffed corn masa pockets wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves. While steaming is the most popular way to reheat tamales, you can also use an air fryer. To do so, preheat your air fryer to 300-375°F, coat the tamales in vegetable oil, and cook for 18-22 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature and time for reheating tamales in an air fryer vary depending on the source and the desired texture. Some sources recommend preheating the air fryer to 325°F for 3-5 minutes, while others suggest a temperature range of 325-350°F or 350°F (175°C). The cook time also varies, with some sources recommending 8-10 minutes, while others suggest 12-22 minutes.

For frozen tamales, one source recommends preheating the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cooking the tamales for about 15 minutes, flipping them once halfway through. Another source suggests a cooking time of 20-22 minutes for frozen tamales.

It is important to note that the size of the tamales and the specific air fryer being used can also impact the ideal temperature and time. It may be necessary to adjust the temperature and time based on personal preferences and the specific circumstances.

Some sources also recommend adding a few tablespoons of water to the air fryer to create steam and help keep the tamales moist. Additionally, it is recommended to place the tamales in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other, to allow for even cooking.

How to prevent tamales from drying out

Yes, you can definitely warm up tamales in an air fryer. Here are some tips to ensure your tamales are tasty and not dried out:

Firstly, it is important to preheat your air fryer. This will ensure your tamales heat evenly. Aim for a temperature of around 330-350°F (175°C).

Secondly, ensure your tamales are wrapped well. You can use foil, a damp cloth, or a steamer basket to prevent them from drying out. If using a damp cloth or steamer basket, make sure there is some space for air circulation.

Thirdly, add a little water to the bottom of the air fryer. This will create steam and help keep the tamales moist. Only add a small amount, as you don't want the water to touch the tamales and make them soggy.

Next, place your tamales in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch each other. Spraying a little oil on them will also keep them from drying out.

Finally, cook your tamales for 3-10 minutes, depending on the temperature and whether they are frozen or not. Check they are heated through before serving. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

By following these steps, you can enjoy delicious, moist tamales with a slightly crispy exterior, without worrying about them drying out.

Reheating cooked, frozen tamales

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) or 375°F. It is important to ensure your air fryer is preheated to the correct temperature to guarantee the best results.

Next, prepare your tamales. Leave the tamales in their corn husks, and coat the husks with a layer of vegetable oil. This will help retain moisture and prevent the tamales from drying out.

Now, you are ready to place the tamales in the air fryer. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is space between them for air to circulate. It is important not to overcrowd the air fryer, so you may need to work in batches.

Cook the tamales for 8-10 minutes, or 18-22 minutes if they are frozen, flipping them halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to ensure they do not overcook.

Once the time is up, remove one tamale and check that it is warmed all the way through. If not, return it to the air fryer and cook for a further 3 minutes.

Finally, serve your tamales with your favourite toppings or sides. Enjoy the delicious blend of soft and moist masa with a slightly crispy exterior!

Some tips to keep in mind:

• The air fryer method works best with cooked, thawed tamales. Frozen tamales may heat unevenly, and the corn husks may burn before the tamales are warmed through.
• If your tamales are exposed at one end, be sure to add oil to that end as well.
• To prevent dryness, ensure your tamales are wrapped well before placing them in the air fryer.
• Always check that your tamales are heated through before serving. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Reheating cooked, thawed tamales

If you have cooked tamales that you want to reheat in an air fryer, it is best to use thawed tamales. Frozen tamales will take longer and are at risk of burning before they are warmed through.

To reheat your tamales, first preheat your air fryer to 300-375°F. Unwrap the tamales and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them. Air fry for 8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5-12 minutes. Check that the tamales are warmed all the way through before serving.

If you want to retain moisture in your tamales, coat the corn husks in vegetable oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will also help to prevent them from drying out.

The air fryer is not the most common method for reheating tamales, and it will make them a little drier than other methods. However, it is still a good option if you want to revive the moisture, preserve the texture, and conserve the flavours of your tamales.

Other ways to reheat tamales

Tamales are a delicious Mexican dish, but warming up leftovers is an art! Here are some alternative ways to reheat tamales, aside from using an air fryer:

Steamer

The gold standard of reheating tamales, steaming helps retain the original flavour and texture. Fill your steamer with water and turn the heat to medium. Keep the tamales in their husks and steam for 15-20 minutes, adding an extra 10 minutes if they're frozen. You can also use a regular pot with a steaming basket.

Oven

A reliable alternative to steaming, reheating tamales in the oven is a simple, quick method. Preheat your oven to 425°F and wrap each tamale tightly in a few layers of aluminium foil, removing any air. Then, put them in the oven for 20 minutes, turning them over halfway through.

Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker

Once your Instant Pot is heated to high, dampen your tamales and let them warm for about 10 minutes. Make sure they're spaced apart so that they'll all be thoroughly cooked.

Microwave

This is a good option if you're in a hurry! The secret to the perfect microwaved tamale is to wrap each one in a damp paper towel. Arrange them on a microwave-safe plate with space between them and heat for one to two minutes. If your tamales are frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours first.

Grilling

Grilling tamales adds a smoky flavour and a firmer texture to the masa. Allow your tamales to thaw, then preheat all burners of a gas grill to medium. Be careful, as corn husks can burn. Place the tamales on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes, turning multiple times, until the corn husks develop visible grill marks.

Comal/Griddle/Frying Pan

Place your tamales on a hot comal, griddle or frying pan for about 8 minutes. The corn husk will turn black and char. Flip them over and warm the other side for another 8 minutes. You can also unwrap the tamales and fry them in a little oil or butter for a crispy texture.

Frequently asked questions