How to Reheat Tamales
Homemade or store-bought tamales, corn husk or banana leaf wrapped.
The Short Answer
The best way to reheat tamales is steaming. Steam for 15-20 minutes to restore the soft, moist masa texture. Keep the husks on during reheating.
Reheating Methods for Tamales
Steamer
Best MethodTime: 15-20 minutes
Keep husks on. Stand upright in a steamer basket with open end up. Steam until the masa pulls away from the husk easily.
Oven
Temperature: 325°F
Time: 20-25 minutes
Wrap in foil with husks on. Place on a baking sheet. The foil traps steam to keep the masa moist.
Microwave
Time: 2-3 minutes
Wrap in a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second intervals. Works in a pinch but the texture is not as good as steaming.
The husk is not just packaging; it is a cooking vessel. It traps steam around the masa during reheating, keeping it soft and moist. Remove it only after reheating, right before eating.
What to Avoid
Warning: Do not unwrap tamales before reheating. The husk protects the masa and keeps it moist. Also do not deep fry tamales to reheat them; fry them intentionally only if you want a crispy texture.
The Bottom Line
The best way to reheat tamales is steamer. Always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for food safety. When stored properly in the refrigerator, tamales can be safely reheated within 3-4 days of the original preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Steam frozen tamales for 25-30 minutes without thawing first. They take longer from frozen but the result is just as good as fresh-steamed. The oven method takes 35-40 minutes from frozen.
The masa should pull away cleanly from the husk when you peel it back. If it sticks, steam for a few more minutes. The center should be hot throughout.
Yes, but remove the husk first and brush with oil. Air fry at 325 degrees F for 8-10 minutes. This creates a crispy exterior that is different from traditional steamed texture but delicious.