Air-Frying Tamales: How Long Does It Take?

Tamales are a traditional dish from Central America and southern North America, including countries such as Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. They are made from nixtamalized corn, which means the corn is soaked and cooked in an alkaline solution, usually limewater. The dough can be filled with various meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, herbs, and chillies. The tamale is traditionally steamed in a corn husk wrapping which is removed before eating.

If you're looking to cook or reheat tamales, an air fryer is a great option. It's quick, easy, and ensures your tamales will be crispy. It's also a healthy option as it uses circulating dry heat to cook food. There is no risk of your tamales drying out or becoming tough.

To cook frozen tamales in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to between 325 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, add your frozen tamales to the basket and cook for about 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Once they’re cooked through, carefully remove them from the air fryer and enjoy!

Preheat the air fryer to 325-375°F

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the process of cooking or reheating tamales. By preheating your air fryer to the correct temperature, you ensure that your tamales cook evenly and efficiently. The ideal temperature range for cooking tamales in an air fryer is between 325°F and 375°F.

Preheating your air fryer to 325°F-375°F is a simple process. First, turn on your air fryer and set the desired temperature within this range. Allow your air fryer to heat up for 3-5 minutes to ensure it reaches the selected temperature. This preheating step is crucial, as it ensures that your tamales will cook evenly and efficiently.

The temperature you choose within this range may depend on your personal preference and the type of tamales you are cooking. For example, if you are in a hurry, you may opt for a higher temperature of 375°F, which will cook your tamales more quickly. On the other hand, if you prefer a slower pace, you can choose a lower temperature of 325°F and cook your tamales for a longer period.

Additionally, the size of your tamales and the specific model of your air fryer may also influence the temperature and cooking time. Larger tamales may require a slightly lower temperature to ensure they cook thoroughly, while smaller tamales may cook well at higher temperatures. It is always a good idea to consult your air fryer's user manual for specific instructions and guidelines.

Once your air fryer has preheated to the desired temperature, you can proceed with the next steps of preparing and cooking your tamales. Remember to follow the specific instructions for your chosen recipe, and always exercise caution when handling hot items.

Spritz oil on tamales

Spritzing oil on tamales before air-frying them is a great way to prevent them from drying out and ensure they stay moist. This is especially important if you're using an air fryer, as it can make the masa slightly chewy. Spritzing oil on the tamales will also help you achieve a crispy exterior, which some people love.

When spritzing oil on tamales, it's important to use a light coating. You can use vegetable oil or olive oil. Coat the tamales in a layer of oil, but don't overdo it. You don't want the tamales to be greasy.

If your tamales are frozen, make sure to coat the husks in oil as well. This will help them retain moisture and prevent them from drying out. You can also add oil during the cooking process to ensure the tamales stay moist.

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to reheat tamales, the air fryer is a great option. Preheat your air fryer to between 325 and 375 °F. Lightly spritz your tamales with oil, place them in the air fryer basket, and cook for 12 to 22 minutes, flipping them over halfway through.

With this method, you can have delicious, authentic tamales ready to enjoy in no time!

Place frozen tamales in the basket

To cook frozen tamales in an air fryer, first preheat your air fryer to 350 °F. Then, spritz the basket with some non-stick cooking spray or lightly brush it with vegetable or olive oil to prevent the tamales from sticking.

Next, place the frozen tamales in the basket in a single layer, leaving the husk on. If your basket holds more than two tamales, feel free to cook more. Otherwise, cook them in batches.

Set the temperature of the air fryer to 375 °F for 12 to 22 minutes. Flip the tamales over halfway through and adjust the temperature as needed.

When done, transfer the tamales to a serving plate and remove the husk before serving warm. If serving to children, cut the tamales in half and let them cool down first.

Air-fry for 8-22 minutes

Air-frying is a great way to cook or reheat tamales, as it is quick and easy, and it ensures that your tamales will be crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. The air fryer circulates hot air around the tamales, heating them evenly and efficiently, without drying them out or making them soggy.

The time it takes to cook or reheat tamales in an air fryer depends on the temperature you set it to. For example, at 375 °F, it should take around 8 minutes, whereas at 325 °F, it will take closer to 22 minutes.

If you are cooking frozen tamales, it is recommended that you set your air fryer to 375 °F and cook them for 16 minutes. However, if you are reheating frozen tamales, you should cook them for at least 20 minutes, and if they are not heated through, cook them in increments of two minutes until they reach the desired temperature.

When reheating tamales, it is important to preheat your air fryer first. You should also lightly spritz or brush your tamales with oil to prevent them from drying out and sticking to the air fryer basket. If you are cooking frozen tamales, there is no need to defrost them first. Simply place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and cook them for the desired amount of time.

So, depending on your temperature settings and whether you are cooking or reheating your tamales, the air-frying time can vary from 8 to 22 minutes.

Remove and serve

Once the designated cooking time is complete, carefully remove the tamales from the air fryer basket using tongs. Be cautious, as they will be hot.

Unwrap the husks from the tamales before serving. If serving to children, it is recommended to cut the tamales in half and allow them to cool down a little before serving.

You can serve the tamales with your favourite toppings and sides. For example, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Frequently asked questions